Urging BNP to participate in the election, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal has said Election Commission always wants all parties to participate in the elections.

He said, “We urge all parties to join in the next election. We would be pleased especially if BNP joins in the election. We expect that every party should create a competitive atmosphere by joining in the elections. We cannot force any party to participate in election.”

The CEC made the remarks following meeting of law enforcers at deputy commissioner’s office in Rangpur on Tuesday.

The development of democracy would be hampered if there is no scope of competition in the election, said Kazi Habibul Awal.

“Political parties should arrange dialogue among themselves. They should sit for dialogue. Showing strength on streets and holding election by casting ballots at the center are not the same.”

He expressed hope that they (political parties) will be able to arrange a competitive and credible election denying whatever the differences they have.

The Election Commission is ready for holding a free, fair and neutral election, the CEC added.

About Rangpur city corporation election, he said the election will be held in a peaceful way.

“There would not be deterioration of the situation there. All kinds of preparation have been taken in this regard. Voters will not face any obstacles in this election.”