Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish has proposed introducing a Mixed Member Proportional Representation (MMPR) electoral system as an alternative to the existing First Past the Post (FPTP) method and the Proportional Representation (PR) system being demanded by several political groups ahead of the next national elections.
The party presented the proposal during a roundtable discussion held on Thursday (July 24) at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).
Khelafat Majlish Amir Allama Muhammad Mamunul Haque said the MMPR model would ensure fair voter representation, political stability, and an accurate reflection of public opinion.
He said that while Islam offers a comprehensive and superior system of governance, in the absence of an Islamic order, the democratic process is currently viewed as a practical alternative.
Mamunul argued that both the FPTP and PR systems have limitations, and MMPR provides a more balanced and just model for Bangladesh’s context.
Under the proposed system, elections would first be held using the existing FPTP method for 300 constituencies. Winners in each seat would become members of parliament. Then, using the PR method, the total share of votes received by each political party would be calculated. If a party wins fewer seats than its vote share would justify, it would receive additional seats to ensure proportional representation. A party receiving at least 1% of the total vote would be eligible for representation.
Mamunul Haque clarified that the total number of parliamentary seats would not be fixed in advance but would be adjusted based on the 300-seat benchmark. For example, if a party receives 50% of the total vote but wins fewer than 150 seats, it would be allocated additional seats to match that ratio. The same would apply to a party receiving 5% of votes—it would be ensured 15 seats if not already won.
Mamunul underscored that countries like New Zealand and Germany have adopted the MMPR system successfully.
He argued that MMPR offers a better balance between fair representation and political stability, and could help resolve ongoing debates over electoral reform in Bangladesh.
The roundtable, chaired by Mamunul Haque, was also addressed by Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque, Labour Party Chairman Dr Mostafizur Rahman Iran, Gono Adhikar Parishad President Nurul Haq Nur, and Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party) General Secretary Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, among others.
MSK/
