Awami League’s return to power is imperative for the economic development of Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said.

“We were re-elected in 2014 and that’s why the development continued,” she said while addressing a public rally in Chandpur on Sunday.

Soliciting votes for the party, the Hasina said that Chandpur residents do not need to come up with any demand. “Vote for boat (Awami League’s polls symbol) and we will do all the development.”

Hasina announced of setting up an economic zone in the district’s Haimchar Upazila. “We will also build a river port there.”

Promising a medical college, the prime minister revealed plans of developing a tourism zone in Chandpur. “Especially, the place where Padma and Meghna rivers join is ideal for river cruises.”

Hasina said the sole objective of her administration was the people’s development. “We are keeping the promises we had made. We have achieved a power generation capacity of 16000MW.”

The Awami League returned to power in 2014 for its second consecutive term following an election boycotted by the BNP-led 20-party alliance.

The party was now preparing for the 11th National Election in 2019.

Addressing the Chandpur rally on Sunday, Hasina emphasised continuation of the Awami League in government for “the sake of development”.

“Raise your hands and promise that you will vote for boat,” the Awami League president said.

Earlier in the day, Hasina launched 23 development projects and laid foundations of 24 projects in the district after inaugurating the Sixth National Community Development Camp of Bangladesh Scouts in Haimchar Upazila.