Reporter Name 
BNP Standing Committee Member AZM Zahid Hossain has urged caution in promoting the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral model, warning that public misunderstanding of the system could threaten Bangladesh’s democratic process.
Speaking at a discussion on “Importance of National Parliament Elections in Ensuring Democracy and Human Rights”—organized by the World Human Rights Organization Bangladesh at the National Press Club—Zahid said ordinary citizens are not fully aware of what PR entails and should not be drawn into politically charged debates that may destabilize the nation.
“The people of Bangladesh don’t fully understand the PR system,” he said. “We must not introduce confusion that could harm democratic progress.”
Zahid questioned the logic of making PR a precondition for participating in elections, warning that delaying polls over such demands could benefit only those aiming to derail democracy.
“If you say elections can’t happen without PR, ask who profits from the delay? Only those—at home and abroad—who conspire against democracy.”
He stressed that political reform must come through peaceful political processes, not coercion. “You have the right to speak, but also the duty to listen. Without mutual respect, there is no democracy—and without democracy, there are no human rights,” he said.
Zahid underscored that the right to vote is fundamental to restoring democratic legitimacy and ensuring rights-based governance.
He also defended the BNP’s legacy of reform, saying, “Those now demanding change should remember—it was the BNP that initiated meaningful reforms in the past. We’ve always stood with the people.”
He praised civil society leader Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar for warning that introducing PR without proper public understanding could be dangerous. “He spoke the truth,” Zahid said.
The event was chaired by Abdul Latif Masum while advocate Subrata Chowdhury, Executive President, Gono Forum, senior Advocate AM Shawkatul Haque, Supreme Court and former Chhatra Dal President Abul Kashem Chowdhury took part in the programme.
