Do Backers of the Proportional Representation System Have Ulterior Motives?
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Synopsis
Tensions rise as the BNP claims those supporting the Proportional Representation system have ulterior motives, citing a lack of constitutional basis. With the national election set for February, political factions clash over the electoral process. Will this lead to further instability in Bangladesh?
Key Takeaways
- BNP claims ulterior motives behind PR supporters.
- No constitutional basis for Proportional Representation system.
- Upcoming elections scheduled for February.
- Political tensions rising among parties.
- Calls for transparency and fairness in electoral process.
Dhaka, Aug 30 (NationPress) Amid rising political tensions leading up to next year’s general elections, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) asserted on Saturday that supporters of the Proportional Representation (PR) system are driven by “ulterior motives.” The party emphasized that the Bangladesh Constitution does not reference a “PR system.” Local media outlets reported these claims.
During the opening of the Netrokona district BNP's triennial council, BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed indirectly criticized the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami.
“They have stated that if elections are not conducted under a PR system, they will obstruct polls in Bangladesh. Today, I declare that the national election will take place in the first half of February next year, before Ramadan starts. No one can prevent it,” quoted The Daily Star, a prominent newspaper in Bangladesh.
“Article 65(2) of Bangladesh's Constitution explicitly states that 300 members of parliament shall be chosen directly from territorial constituencies. There is no mention of any PR system or provisions,” he noted, referencing the Constitution of Bangladesh.
Salahuddin accused those making misleading statements aimed at delaying or obstructing the elections of deceiving the public.
“Candidates are engaging with the public, and the populace is eager to vote. Anyone speaking against elections will be rejected by the public,” he added.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the interim government's Chief Advisor, insisted that the national election will proceed as planned in the first half of February, affirming that no force will impede it.
“We firmly state that the election will occur in the first half of February. No force can stop it,” quoted Dhaka Tribune, another leading daily.
“The election will certainly take place before February 15, within the first half of February. No conspiracy will be able to halt it,” he emphasized.
On Friday, Jamaat accused Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus of failing to keep his promise, claiming that the newly announced roadmap was meant to undermine the possibility of a fair election.
“The Chief Advisor has broken his promise by introducing the election roadmap; this roadmap is a scheme to derail a just election,” said Jamaat leader Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher during a public event.
Taher further asserted that the Election Commission committed a serious injustice by unveiling a roadmap without clarifying whether the elections would be based on the previous traditional method or the newly suggested PR system.
“We will not allow this to happen. We will compel the government and the Election Commission to ensure that elections occur based on the July Charter refund and PR,” he added.
Bangladesh has been engulfed in uncertainty regarding the upcoming general elections since last year when the democratically elected government of Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was toppled amidst violent protests.
The political factions that allied with Yunus to oust Hasina are now in conflict over reform proposals and the timing of the next elections.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities within Bangladesh's political landscape. The BNP's concerns highlight the contentious nature of electoral reforms, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in upcoming elections. The situation requires careful monitoring as various factions vie for power and influence.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political situation in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is experiencing heightened political tension as parties prepare for the upcoming general elections scheduled for February. The BNP has raised concerns over proposed electoral reforms.
What is the Proportional Representation (PR) system?
The Proportional Representation system is an electoral framework where parties gain seats based on the percentage of votes they receive, contrasting with traditional constituency-based elections.
Why does the BNP oppose the PR system?
The BNP claims that the PR system is not mentioned in the Constitution and suggests that its supporters have ulterior motives that could undermine the electoral process.
When are the upcoming elections in Bangladesh?
The national elections are set to take place in the first half of February next year, before the onset of Ramadan.
How has the political landscape changed in recent years?
The political landscape has become increasingly volatile since the overthrow of the Awami League government last year, leading to ongoing conflicts between various political factions.
