Proportional voting could lead to greater dictatorship, warns Rizvi

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Senior Joint Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has expressed concerns that adopting a Proportional Representation (PR) voting system could steer the country toward increased dictatorship and stifle the development of local leadership. 

He shared these views during a programme organised by the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB) at the BNP party office at Grand Hotel intersection in Rangpur city on Thursday morning. 

The event, which included voluntary blood donation and blood grouping, was held to commemorate the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, mourning, and victory.

Rizvi argued that under the PR system, voters would cast ballots for a party rather than individual candidates. The party would then select representatives for each seat, potentially undermining the emergence of grassroots leaders. 

"This system will prevent individuals from building political careers at the local level and push the nation toward greater dictatorship," he stated.

He also cautioned BNP leaders and activists against engaging in extortion or encroachment, emphasizing the party’s commitment to democracy. 

"As a democratic force, we must remain vigilant. Our actions should not harm the common people, and we must ensure that no BNP member or affiliate is associated with extortion or encroachment," Rizvi urged, stressing the need for conduct that respects the public.

Reflecting on recent history, Rizvi described the past 16 years as a challenging period for BNP members, marked by persecution under Sheikh Hasina’s government. 

He highlighted the sacrifice of Shaheed Abu Sayeed, who lost his life confronting law enforcement, sparking a nationwide movement. 

"Through his sacrifice and the loss of many young students, we have achieved a new Bangladesh," he said.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Rangpur Metropolitan BNP Member Secretary Advocate Mahfuz Un Nabi Don, DAB Metropolitan Convener Dr. Nikhilendra Shankar Guha, Rangpur Medical College Convener Dr. Mahmudal Haque Sarkar, and District DAB Convener Dr. Khalequzzaman, among others.