EU calls for peaceful city polls

European Union has stated that all sides must refrain from any actions that could spark further violence in Bangladesh in the run up to the vote for the mayoral elections in Dhaka and Chittagong. 

"We look to political leaders to create favourable conditions for peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible elections to take place. Voters must be given the opportunity to express freely their democratic choice," an EU spokesperson said in a statement issued in Brussels on Friday.

All political actors should take concrete steps to end violence, de-escalate tensions and engage in a constructive manner, for the long-term stability and democratic development of Bangladesh, the statement added.