BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that political parties seeking proportional representation (PR) can include it in their election manifesto and implement it in parliament with people’s mandate. “But calling for PR ballots during elections is unrealistic — only politically isolated parties can make such demands,” he remarked.

Khasru stressed that while reforms are necessary, the extent of feasible reforms must be debated, and unresolved issues should go before the public in the next election. He added, “Dissent is part of politics, but respecting others’ opinions and practicing tolerance are vital.”

Citing global examples, he said countries that quickly returned to democracy after revolutions thrived, while those that failed suffered crises and even civil wars. He further claimed, “Had elections been held within three months, the country would have been performing well on every indicator.”