Stating that people’s unity is now more important than ever, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday urged political parties to carefully consider whether the proportional representation (PR) election system is suitable for Bangladesh, warning that it could lead to division.

“Some political parties have raised the demand for a proportional representation (PR) electoral system. While this system of elections exists in certain countries around the world, I urge everyone to carefully consider how suitable—or whether it is suitable at all—for Bangladesh at this moment, given the country’s current reality and its geographical-political context,” he said.

Tarique made the remarks while virtually addressing the party’s discussion, ‘Mass Uprising 2024: National Unity and Democratic Journey’, held at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre in the capital.

To establish Bangladesh on a strong democratic foundation, he said the country must be freed from subservience.

“At this moment, national unity is more important than ever. But I would like to humbly appeal to the leaders of all political parties to seriously consider whether the proportional representation system could lead to a divided society and an unstable government instead of national unity,” the BNP leader said.

He said all parties need to seriously consider whether, under the cover of the proportional representation electoral system, they are unknowingly being used to rehabilitate a previously defeated, fugitive and deposed dictator into Bangladesh’s politics.

The BNP leader said the interim government remains active in arranging a national election to establish a government that will be accountable to the people through their direct votes. At the same time, he said, the government has started the trial of the ousted fascists and begun reforms in the state and politics.

Mentioning that reforming the state and politics is an ongoing process, Tarique said he firmly believes that the future government elected by the people will continue the work started by the interim government to ensure democracy and the rule of law in both the state and society. “So, democracy-loving people believe it is logical not to link one issue with the conditions of another,” he observed.

In the reform process initiated by the interim government, the BNP leader said political parties are making thoughtful proposals. “Everyone is putting forward good suggestions keeping people in mind. But it is important to consider whether all these proposals are truly suitable in the context of Bangladesh.”

He warned that if political parties continue to raise new issues one after another, conspirators might find a chance to re-emerge. Noting that it is not possible for the interim government to solve every problem of the people, he said, “If we keep the interim government constantly occupied with reform matters, it may end up depriving the people of their political and economic rights.”

He said there is a deliberate attempt to position BNP as the main opponent in order to divide the nation. “Many parties are making various demands to disrupt the election, which is contributing to national disunity… We must stay united to move the country forward.”

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said national unity against fascism must be upheld, adding, “It will be our strength in building a new Bangladesh.”

He said while democratic political parties may have differences, they must remain united in the interest of the nation and in safeguarding the country’s independence and sovereignty.