People elected party and independent candidates spontaneously : PM Hasina

Prime Minister and Awami League president Sheikh Hasina said that people had elected party and independent candidates by voting spontaneously in the freshly ended 12th national parliamentary election. She also remarked her party’s recent triumph in the election as people’s triumph.

She said these while exchanging views with local journalists and foreign observers on Monday (8 January) afternoon at her official residence Ganobhaban. She said, "This election reflects the fulfillment of the people`s right to form a government and exercise their voting rights, a cause I have long struggled for,"

"It is not a victory for me; rather, it is a victory for the people,” added the premier.

"I believe that your presence will further fortify the democratic system in our country," the prime minister remarked while thanking the foreign observers and journalists for their participation.

She also said Bangladesh maintains good relations with all its neighbouring countries.

"We maintain good relations with neighbours. Our foreign policy is friendship with all and malice towards none."

She stated, "Our primary goal is development for the people," in reference to the nation`s five-year plan. My goal is to ensure better lives and prosperity through economic progress."

When asked about the opposition parties` boycotts, the prime minister responded, "Every party is free to participate in the election or not. Whether or not people cast ballots is a significant factor.

Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister and President of the Awami League, received congratulations earlier on Monday from the ambassadors of India, Singapore, China, Bhutan, Philippines, and Sri Lanka following Awami League`s 4^th consecutive victory in the national elections on Sunday (7 January).

They expressed their firm commitment to continue cooperation with Bangladesh. The prime minister thanked them and sought their cooperation in the development and progress of Bangladesh.