Those demanding PR system are just fringe group: Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has dismissed proponents of Proportional Representation (PR) system, branding them a mere fringe group that previously colluded with the Awami League to legitimize elections.

Speaking at a BNP rally in Dhaka's South Keraniganj on Saturday, Salahuddin criticized former allies of the ruling Awami League who are now part of the reform commission. 

“Those who once stood with the Awami League under the banner of the 14-party alliance are now making grand statements about reforms. The people demanding proportional elections at Suhrawardy Udyan are nothing but a fringe group that earlier provided legitimacy to rigged polls,” he said.

Salahuddin warned against attempts to distort the history of Bangladesh’s democratic struggle, emphasizing that “reform is a continuous process.” 

He called for swift, short-term reforms to pave the way for elections, promising that if the people mandate the BNP to power, the party would implement constitutional and broader reforms.

Despite internal differences, Salahuddin urged political forces supporting the July uprising to remain united. “Even with disagreements, political forces backing a people’s uprising must stay together to build a prosperous Bangladesh,” he said.

He also cautioned that anyone hoping to cling to power without elections under the guise of reform and accountability was chasing a dream that would turn into a nightmare. “If necessary, the BNP will once again take to the streets to restore people’s rights,” he declared.

On the newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP), led by student leaders who spearheaded the July uprising, Salahuddin offered cautious support. “We wish success for the students’ new party. They say they won’t contest elections without fundamental reforms, but they have yet to clearly state what conditions would bring them to the polls,” he noted.