Dhaka: BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today declared that the Proportional Representation (PR) system is not suitable for Bangladesh’s socio-economic, geographic, and political situation. He stated, “We know that many countries around the world have a PR system for elections. However, this method is not yet suitable for elections in the context of Bangladesh’s socio-economic, geographic, and political circumstances.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman made these remarks as the chief guest while speaking at a ‘Janmashtami greetings exchange’ event, organized by the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Welfare Fund and BNP, held at the Institution of Engineers in Ramna. The event was presided over by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and moderated by Tarun Kumar Dey, the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Welfare Fund. Advocate Nipun Roy Chowdhury, a member of the BNP National Executive Committee and General Secretary of the Dhaka District BNP, gave the welcome address.
Rahman emphasized the importance of the electorate’s ability to know which political party or individual they are voting for, criticizing the PR system for its lack of clarity in this regard. He further remarked on the decade-long struggle of the people against what he described as the tyranny of a ‘Kamsa’-like fascist ruler, drawing a parallel to the Hindu mythology figure. He credited the sacrifices made during the July mass uprising for liberating Bangladesh from such tyranny.
Highlighting the risk involved in the democratic transition without a parliament and government accountable to the people, Rahman expressed concern over the confusion created by statements and conditions proposed by certain political factions regarding the upcoming national election. He accused a “fugitive autocrat” of launching a campaign to prevent BNP’s victory, which he claims has distorted the country’s electoral process for years.
Rahman criticized some political groups and individuals allied during the anti-fascist movement for adopting the ‘Stop BNP’s victory’ mindset. He called upon the electorate to support BNP in forming a government and urged political opponents to engage in fair competition, emphasizing the people’s right to vote freely.
Addressing democratic differences, Rahman warned against creating complex situations that could obstruct the democratic transition or facilitate the return of autocracy. He urged democratic parties to maintain unity and prevent internal disputes from benefiting defeated fascists.
He also appealed to the Hindu community to be vigilant against those who might exploit their religious identity for political gain. The event featured speeches from other prominent BNP members, including Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, Dr. Abdul Moin Khan, and others.