PR system only benefits less popular parties: BNP’s Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has rejected calls for a proportional representation (PR) voting system, arguing it would only benefit less popular parties and risk permanent political instability in Bangladesh. Speaking at a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Nationalist British Law Student Alliance (BNBLSA) at the Supreme Court on Thursday, September 25, Salahuddin said PR was being promoted for two reasons: “to secure more seats and to create disunity so that the majority party cannot come to power.” He warned that adopting such a system could pave the way for “another fascist or weak government like Sheikh Hasina’s.” “The system of voting is clearly stated in the constitution,” Salahuddin stressed. “It mentions the election of people’s representatives through direct...