BNP leader argues proportional representation is too complex for current political context; suggests underlying motives behind its proposal.

Dhaka, June 28 – Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has dismissed the possibility of conducting national elections in Bangladesh under the Proportional Representation (PR) system, calling it an overly complicated method unsuited to the country's political and administrative landscape.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday after the unveiling of the publication and archive titled “From the Battlefield to Head of State: Ziaur Rahman” at the International Mother Language Institute in Segunbagicha, Dhaka, the BNP leader firmly rejected PR as a viable electoral model.

“The PR system is a complex process. In the current context of Bangladesh, implementing such a method is not feasible,” he stated.

Salahuddin further questioned the intentions of those advocating for PR-based elections, claiming that such proposals may be designed to either delay the electoral process or to obstruct it entirely.

“Those who are pushing for PR elections have a hidden agenda. Either they want to stall the election or derail it altogether,” he asserted.

Amid ongoing discussions about potential electoral reforms in the country, Salahuddin clarified that the BNP is preparing in full swing for the upcoming national elections and does not support experiments that could undermine democratic continuity.

“We are moving ahead with preparations for the national election. This is not the right time for local elections, and the government must announce the election schedule without further delay,” he added.

The senior BNP figure also criticized the assumption that all parties must accept the recommendations of a proposed ‘National Consensus Commission,’ suggesting that true consensus cannot be forced through uniform agreement.

“It’s unrealistic to expect everyone to accept the same view in the name of consensus. Consensus comes from inclusive dialogue, not imposed solutions,” Salahuddin said.

On the topic of reforms, he emphasized that reform is a continuous process, not a rigid doctrine.

“Reform isn’t a holy book. It evolves with time and context,” he remarked.

Salahuddin’s comments come at a time of heightened political debate in Bangladesh, with various parties and civil society actors discussing alternative election models, including PR, as a means to ensure greater representation. However, critics argue that introducing such a model in a short timeframe without national consensus or institutional readiness could create more problems than it solves.

BNP, while traditionally advocating for electoral reforms and fair polls, appears committed to the existing parliamentary structure—provided the elections are conducted under a neutral framework.

The event also served as a tribute to the life and legacy of the late President Ziaur Rahman, BNP’s founder, where several party leaders reflected on his role in shaping the post-war nation and establishing democratic institutions.

As the countdown to the next general election continues, Salahuddin’s statements underline BNP’s focus on a straightforward path to the polls—free from distractions, delays, or controversial system overhauls.