Over 400 political leaders from the Awami League and the BNP gathered on a single platform to pledge for a non-violent and peaceful national election.

They made the vow at the national launch of ‘Shantite Bijoy’ campaign at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in the city Monday.

Funded by USAID and UKAID, Democracy International is conducting the campaign.

With the national election approaching, the campaign will engage and raise awareness among the political stakeholders on the importance of peaceful elections and tolerant politics.

At the event, US Ambassador Marcia Bernicat said free, fair and inclusive elections are important for Bangladesh as it is on track to become a mid-income.

All parties, groups and individuals should be free to participate fully in the political process leading up to the vote, she said.

Individuals from different political parties must be free to express their political views, to campaign throughout the country and to hold peaceful rallies and meetings without intimidation, reprisal or arbitrary restrictions, she added.

“It is essential that Bangladeshis urge non-violence by all actors at every stage of the democratic process, before, during, and after the election,” the US envoy said.

Violence serves only those who wish to undermine the democratic processes and interest of Bangladesh and its citizens, she added.

British High Commissioner Alison Blake echoed.

 “This is not just a wish or a hope, but a right and what people deserve: that they will be able to express their view and that their voice will count,” she said.

People of Bangladesh want a peaceful political environment and tolerant political practices and violence and disorder should not be a part of politics or elections, added the UK envoy.

Political Adviser to the Prime Minister HT Imam, who also sits on the Awami League’s advisors’ panel, said that the government is committed to hold free, fair and credible election.

BNP’s policymaking National Standing Committee Abdul Moyeen Khan said, “We want peaceful political environment and justice ensures peace.”