PR system led to 14 power changes in Nepal: Zahid

BNP Standing Committee member Dr Zahid Hossain on Friday claimed that Nepal has experienced 14 changes in government in recent years due to the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system.

He made the remarks while speaking at the national conference of the Pharmaceutical Representatives Association (PhaReA), held at the Bangladesh Medical Association (BMA) auditorium in the capital.

Dr. Zahid alleged that certain political groups are now promoting the PR system with authoritarian and fascist undertones, despite the lack of public consensus.

“Before August 5, no one raised the issue of PR. Now, some are pushing this agenda in a way that undermines democratic principles,” he said.

He accused some parties of attempting to manipulate public opinion by presenting their own views as those of the people, without any legitimate public mandate.

“Some are taking to the streets demanding PR, but their real intention is to delay the election,” he added.

Dr. Zahid also alleged that “fake and sudden processions” are being staged to create confusion and mislead the public.

Drawing comparisons with Nepal, he said, “Due to PR practices, Nepal saw 14 changes in government within a few years. Those advocating for PR in Bangladesh are paving the way for instability and a return to authoritarian rule.”

He further questioned the method of pushing for PR through presidential orders.

“If PR is genuinely a demand, it should be included in election manifestos. Why bypass the Constitution through executive orders?” he asked, warning that attempts to ignore the Constitution could lead to disorder in the country.