Jamaat calls for referendum on proportional representation system

The party says the government has "failed" to ensure a level playing field

The Jamaat-e-Islami has called for a referendum on adopting a proportional representation (PR) system for parliamentary polls.

At a protest rally in Dhaka on Thursday, party leaders said the people’s verdict must be accepted. If citizens back the PR system, it should be implemented, while Jamaat itself would accept the result if the public rejects it.

The demonstration, held at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, was part of a joint programme pressing for five demands, including full implementation of the July Charter and a national election under the PR system.

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar said, “The public wants politics to move towards a transparent and acceptable election, and Jamaat-e-Islami is prioritising this effort.

“Unfortunately, some are using political influence, or regrettably the government has bowed to certain powers, which prevents the level playing field from being maintained.”

He added, “The July Charter must be given legal backing, and the next election should be conducted based on that foundation.”

He warned that some are creating “obstacles” by claiming constitutional reforms do not need legal backing before the polls and can instead be addressed by the next elected government.

According to him, this contradicts the aspirations of the people.

He specifically criticised the BNP’s stance, saying that delaying these reforms risks a “serious crisis”.
Leaders of that party have openly suggested that any laws or reforms passed now would be overturned once they return to power, which undermines the stability of the process, Porwar said.
“Since we now have a non-partisan interim government, this is the right time to give the July Charter constitutional and legal foundation. The Consensus Commission and the government must act without delay.”
He added, “Some say this cannot be done. If these reforms are not implemented now, if elections are held under the existing state structure, another ‘fascist’ regime could be born.
“Another [Sheikh] Hasina-like government could emerge. The people of Bengal will not allow ‘fascism’ to return. That is why you cannot create a level playing field.”
The Jamaat leader urged the government to enact legal support for the Charter, issue a constitutional order, and hold a referendum.
He expressed disappointment with ongoing talks with the National Consensus Commission and suggested the government might be yielding to certain pressures.
In response, he announced fresh programmes: demonstrations in all divisional cities on Friday, followed by protests in districts and Upazilas on Sept 26.
Porwar also criticised those who argue for delaying reforms, questioning why all previous efforts would have been made if reform could wait.
He emphasised that their movement is an “essential part” of politics and remains hopeful that dialogue will bring a resolution.
He argued for the proportional representation (PR) system, claiming 70 percent of people support it.
Porwar warned that without PR elections, another authoritarian government could emerge. He noted that out of 31 parties in the commission, 25 support PR.
He said, “Some say people do not understand PR or EVM, but no politically experienced person can make that claim. We challenge them: hold a referendum and see whether the public supports PR or not.”
“If the public accepts PR, all must respect it,” he added. “If the people reject it, Jamaat-e-Islami will also accept that.”
“But why fear a referendum? Why be afraid?” he asked.
“Through PR, if a parliament is formed based on participation, free from muscle power and black money, a quality government will be established,” Porwar said.