Some parties have vowed not to join elections without PR system: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that certain political parties in the country have pledged to boycott elections unless the Proportional Representation (PR) system is introduced.

He said, “Unfortunately, some political parties in our country are promoting these ideas (PR system). Not only are they promoting it, but they have also taken a stand that they won’t join the election without it.”

He made these remarks on Tuesday afternoon (July 29) while speaking as the chief guest at a memorial and discussion event held at the National Press Club. The event was organized to commemorate the fifth death anniversary of Shafiul Bari Babu, former central general secretary of the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Swechhasebak Dal. The program was arranged by the Shafiul Bari Babu Smriti Sangsad.

Highlighting the lack of public understanding about proportional representation (PR), he said, “It’s encouraging that there’s consensus on several issues. However, challenges emerge when unfamiliar ideas are introduced. Concepts like PR are new to the people and the nation. Many ask, ‘What is this PR thing, brother?’ Some still struggle to vote properly using EVMs and end up avoiding the process altogether. In that context, expecting them to grasp PR is unrealistic. We need to move past this kind of thinking.”

Fakhrul further said, “Elections should be held using a system that people are already familiar with. Let them exercise their right to choose their representatives. That’s the way forward to resolve the current crisis—otherwise, the problems will persist. National issues cannot be solved by imposing foreign concepts or unfamiliar systems. Our demand is clear—carry out the necessary reforms without delay, declare a national charter, and hold the election as per the announced schedule. Restore the people’s rights—especially their right to vote.”

He also called for the preservation of the current building of the Shishu Academy. He said, “It pains me deeply when I hear or read in the newspapers that the existing building of the Shishu Academy—founded by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman—is going to be demolished. I’ve issued statements before, and I’m once again making a heartfelt appeal: regardless of who owns the land, this institution was established by President Ziaur Rahman for the development of children, with contributions from many. Children from all corners of the country come here. Please don’t demolish it.”

The event was chaired by BNP Joint Secretary General Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel. Also present were BNP Chairperson’s advisor Amanullah Aman, Vice Chairman Asaduzzaman Ripon, members of the Standing Committee, and leaders from various levels of the party.