Prime Minister and Awami League (AL) President Sheikh Hasina today (November 23) urged BNP to participate in the 12th national election slated for January 7 to examine who the people want to see in power.

"Let's join the election to see how far one can run and to know who the people want to see in power," she said.

The prime minister was delivering her introductory speech ahead of AL's Parliamentary Nomination Board meeting at the party's Dhaka district office in city’s Tejgaon area to finalise the party's candidates for Rajshahi, Khulna and Rangpur divisions.

She also sounded a note of warning against any move to foil the election.

"Don't try to thwart the election. If do so, the consequence will not be good for anyone," she warned.

The premier called upon other political parties to participate in the next election.

"They (remaining other parties) who are in dilemma, I urge you all to take part in the election as there is no doubt that the next general election will be free and neutral," she said, welcoming the parties that announced to join the polls.

The prime minister said she had given instruction time and again to make sure that the people of the country can vote freely.

"We will hold the election to ensure people's rights to franchise. We will not interfere to this end. We want the election commission to hold free and neutral election," she said.

She also said they don't need to steal the votes, as the people have confidence and trust in the Awami League.

The international agencies surveys have also portrayed the same thing, she added.

"So, we will take part in the election with self-confidence," she continued.

She urged the countrymen to cast their votes in favour of their choice with self-confidence.

BDST: 1455 HRS, NOV 23, 2023
MN/SMS