If elections would hold under the proportional representation (PR) system, it will give political parties the ultimate authority to elect representative, not people, said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

``The PR system would curb the people`s power to elect their desired lawmakers and give political parties the ultimate authority in the matter. Those of us who want an election very soon to establish democracy and from a democratic government in the country, are truly worried about this misguided effort."

Mirza Fakhrul made the remarks at a views exchange meeting with a delegation of the Christian Community at the party Chairperson`s office.

He said, "The PR system is prevalent in many countries. However, the people of our country are not very familiar with this method. Today, this issue is being brought up suddenly and with ulterior motives and there is an agitation for it."

``The decision regarding PR should be left to the next parliament. If the representatives of the next parliament think that they will adopt the PR system and if the people think that they will go for the PR system, then the election will be held using the PR system."

After 15 years of misrule, the BNP leader said, a new opportunity has emerged to rebuild Bangladesh for which thousands of people sacrificed their lives and took part in the Liberation War. Everyone should always remember that Bangladesh became independent through the Liberation War in 1971, he said.

The BNP leader said the people of Bangladesh fought for independence to have a complete and distinct national identity.