Khulna: BNP National Standing Committee member Major Hafiz Uddin Ahmed (retd), Bir Bikram, has voiced concerns that certain vested interests are promoting the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system to mislead the populace. “We want people to vote based on a candidate’s personality, competence, and integrity, and the people also agree with us. But some vested quarters want to camouflage with people in the name of PR electoral system,” Major Hafiz stated at a discussion held at the Khulna Press Club.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Major Hafiz highlighted the ongoing struggle of the BNP against what he termed a “fascist government,” a struggle that has spanned 17 years and seen the sacrifice of many leaders and activists. Despite these efforts, he noted that some political parties are attempting to disrupt the path toward establishing democracy.
The discussion, titled ‘Martyr Zia in the Great Liberation War of 1971 and the Establishment of Democracy,’ was organized by the Khulna City and District Units of the Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal. Sheikh Alamgir Hossain, the president of its Khulna city unit, chaired the event. The discussion featured Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal President Istiaq Aziz Ulfat as the main speaker, with BNP’s Information Secretary Azizul Bari Helal and other notable BNP leaders in attendance.
Major Hafiz critiqued the ruling Awami League for allegedly distorting the history of the 1971 Liberation War. He drew parallels between historical attempts to establish BAKSAL post-independence and current efforts to misrepresent the 2024 mass uprising. Major Hafiz emphasized the significant role that BNP leaders and activists played in both the 1971 and 2024 movements, underscoring their sacrifices for the nation’s freedom.
Reflecting on the Liberation War, Major Hafiz remarked on the contributions of real freedom fighters, many of whom came from impoverished backgrounds. He lamented that post-independence, affluent families claimed the identity of freedom fighters. He also expressed optimism about the current political climate in Bangladesh, noting that “a normal situation is now prevailing” and that a “wind of democracy” is starting to blow.
He urged all political parties to participate in elections, asserting that a fair and transparent election is achievable with universal participation. Major Hafiz firmly stated that the “dummy election” era under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would not be tolerated by the people of Bangladesh.