PR system must be implemented with people's mandate: Amir Khasru

BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has emphasized that any demands related to proportional representation (PR) or national elections must be implemented with the mandate of the people, through elections.

He made the remarks while visiting Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur in capital's Hatirjheel on Thursday (September 18) to inquire about his health.

“PR can be sought, and other demands may also be raised, but they must be approved by the people through elections. This is democracy,” he said.

On the current accountability vacuum, Amir Khasru noted that the absence of parliament and an elected government has left responsibility and accountability lacking. He stressed that the people want stability, which is only possible under a political government.

Regarding PR-based elections and the five-point demands of parties including Jamaat-e-Islami, he said differing party philosophies mean consensus is not always possible. “Any demand must go through elections and the people’s mandate,” he added.

He further emphasized that trusting the people and following democratic processes such as debate and lawmaking in parliament is essential for stability. Attempts to create instability will carry political consequences, he warned.