BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu has said that those who advocate for elections under the proportional representation system want to rehabilitate the Awami League.
“Those who fear elections, who want to rehabilitate the forces of darkness and the Awami League, are the ones now pushing for proportional representation," he said at a memorial event organized by Desh Bachao, Manush Bachao Andolon (Save the Country, Save the People Movement) at the National Press Club, marking the first anniversary of the July mass uprising.
“The proportional representation system is no longer sufficient. If anyone still wants it, they should present their agenda to the nation and seek a mandate through votes. If they win, they can implement proportional representation. But imposing such a system by force, whether on the BNP or any other government, would be wrong. The nation does not support it.”
Shamsuzzaman added: “This movement did not begin last year; it had been a 15- to 16-year-long struggle to oust autocracy, restore democracy, and reclaim voting rights. Now some are talking about proportional representation. This is a new trap. In an attempt to steal the people’s mandate, they are seeking a new way to bring back the Awami League. But this conspiracy will not succeed.”
The BNP leader said: “We must remember July–August for our dignity and for building a united nation. This is not something to be made controversial. Those who participated in the movement are all national heroes. They all shed blood for the nation’s freedom. Teenagers, workers, elders -- everyone fought for national liberation. That goal of national liberation is still unfulfilled. To achieve it, we need a free, fair, and impartial national election.
“Since a date has already been set for February, we must jump into election preparation. Sitting idle will not work. The forces of darkness and conspiracy want to block the election. It is our duty to stand for the election wherever we are. Only then can we truly honour the martyrs.”
