Mirza Fakhrul Calls for Keeping Bangladesh Secular

PNN News Desk | Dhaka:

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that Bangladesh was founded on secular principles, but now there are attempts to divide the country politically along religious lines. He expressed hope that in the upcoming national elections, the people will once again prove that they believe in a secular Bangladesh and have faith in democracy.

Mirza Fakhrul spoke to the media on Monday after a meeting with representatives of the Bangladesh Christian Forum at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, Dhaka.

He stated, “The core spirit of the 1971 Liberation War was to establish an independent, secular state. However, now there is a slow attempt to distort that spirit, which is not good for the country.”

The BNP Secretary General further stated, “We believe that people of all religions and ethnicities in Bangladesh are entitled to equal dignity and rights. As a nation, we want to build a secular, humane, and united Bangladesh.”

Regarding the proposed proportional representation (PR) system for the parliamentary elections, Mirza Fakhrul said, “It would not be right to implement this proposed system by the Reform Commission at this point. It is unfamiliar to the public and could create confusion. This decision should be left for the next parliament.”

He cautioned, “Under this system, voters will be forced to vote for parties, not individuals. As a result, the concept of direct representation by the people will weaken.”

In conclusion, Mirza Fakhrul said, “We are always in favor of free, fair, and acceptable elections. But suddenly implementing a new voting system will confuse the people. At this critical time in the fight for democracy, this is concerning.”