Are Those Who Lost in the 1971 B'desh War Now Disrupting Elections?
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Synopsis
In a bold accusation, BNP claims that factions defeated in the 1971 Liberation War are attempting to disrupt Bangladesh's upcoming elections by advocating for a Proportional Representation system. This article delves into the ongoing tensions and the implications for democracy in Bangladesh.
Key Takeaways
- BNP accuses defeated factions of disrupting elections
- Proportional Representation system under scrutiny
- Calls for preserving voting rights
- Jamaat-e-Islami's controversial history highlighted
- Future of democracy in Bangladesh at stake
Dhaka, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) claims that factions defeated in the 1971 Liberation War are working to undermine the forthcoming national elections through street protests advocating for a Proportional Representation (PR) system, according to local media. During a discussion themed 'Democracy and the Constitution of Bangladesh in the Current Context' in Dhaka, BNP Standing Committee member Selima Rahman accused radical Islamist factions, including Jamaat-e-Islami, of inciting unrest under the guise of promoting the PR system.
She stated, "We are witnessing schemes to halt or postpone the elections, despite the election roadmap being announced. The conspirators are remnants of the 1971 defeat, and their talk of PR is foreign to the common citizen," as reported by The Dhaka Tribune.
Selima explained that a PR system would eliminate individual candidates, allowing voters to cast ballots solely for parties.
Reaffirming the BNP's staunch opposition, she cautioned that the PR system would diminish citizens' voting rights.
Criticizing Jamaat, Selima asserted, "Jamaat—those who once perpetrated violence against our nation, who betrayed the country by supporting Pakistan, and who acted as Razakars and Al-Badr, have a history that they cannot shed, despite their current rhetoric."
The BNP leader also accused Jamaat of attempting to undermine the hard-earned democratic progress of Bangladesh, achieved after a prolonged struggle.
"Their goal is to obstruct the elections, delay them, or incite instability. However, the people of Bangladesh will not permit this. The BNP is a major political party, committed to ensuring that the elections proceed, votes are cast, and a responsible government is formed. That is our commitment," she emphasized.
Recently, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir criticized the coordinated protests by various radical Islamist parties, including Jamaat, contending that advocating for demands like the PR system is detrimental to democracy.
The factions that previously allied with Muhammad Yunus to topple the democratically elected Awami League government, led by Sheikh Hasina, are now in conflict over reform proposals.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the BNP's concerns regarding the electoral process in Bangladesh. While the allegations against certain factions are serious, it is equally important to uphold democratic principles and ensure that all voices are heard in this essential phase of governance.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Proportional Representation system?
The Proportional Representation system is an electoral system where parties gain seats in the legislature in proportion to the number of votes they receive, as opposed to having individual candidates.
Why is the BNP opposing the PR system?
The BNP argues that the PR system would diminish individual voting rights, as voters would only be able to vote for a party rather than individual candidates.
What role does Jamaat-e-Islami play in this situation?
Jamaat-e-Islami has been accused by the BNP of inciting unrest and attempting to destabilize the electoral process by protesting for the PR system.
How are the 1971 Liberation War events relevant today?
The events of the 1971 Liberation War continue to influence political dynamics in Bangladesh, as factions from that time are perceived to still hold sway in contemporary politics.
What are the potential implications for democracy in Bangladesh?
The ongoing tensions and protests could lead to instability, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the future of democratic governance in the country.
