Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has said that individuals with hidden agendas may not prefer the Proportional Representation (PR) system of elections.
He made the statement on Saturday afternoon while addressing the party’s national convention at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka.
Speaking at the event, Taher asserted that the PR system is the only transparent and neutral path for the struggle to build a new Bangladesh. “This system leaves no scope for occupying polling centres or buying votes with money. That’s why those with secret motives may not like it,” he said.
He added, “If elections are held under the PR system, no one will be able to occupy centers or purchase votes. So those opposing this method, what kind of democracy do they actually want?”
Describing a fair election as the foundation for a new Bangladesh, Taher said, “Opposing transparency in elections shows a lack of sincerity in the effort to build a new Bangladesh.”
Criticising the old system, he said, “The 54-year-old governance model and the pattern seen on August 5 have been completely rejected. Now is the time for a new Bangladesh, one based on rights, good governance, and justice. People will no longer accept outdated ruling methods.”
Regarding reform, he said, “Many agree to reforms during meetings but show different intentions in actual discussions. The core problem is in mindset. Those who truly oppose reform likely have undisclosed motives.”
Addressing the legal framework of reform in parliament, he stated, “Some ask where the law is. The law will be passed in the next parliament. That assumption itself reveals that they are confident of entering parliament, not by winning, but by capturing it. This mindset misleads society.”
Taher claimed that the upcoming election will reflect the people’s will. “Those whom the people favor will win. This message has echoed through our mass gatherings, those who support the ideals of Bangladesh and good governance will win, Inshallah.”
He concluded with a warning: “If this legal framework fails, the people will not accept it. The dream of a new Bangladesh will not be reversed.”