DHAKA: US ambassador to Dhaka Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat expressed mixed reaction over the city corporations polls on Tuesday.

Bernicat, who visited the city’s Banani Bidyaniketan School and College polling centre, told the journalists that it is very good news that lots of people are coming out to cast their ballots.

However, there were some reports of violence at different places, which were very disappointing.

Replying to a query on BNP’s poll boycotting in the middle of the voting, Bernicat said the Election Commission (EC) would look into the matter.

The US ambassador also revealed her disappointment over polls and the BNP’s issue using Twitter.


Barnicat twitted: “Disappointing to hear so many first-hand reports of intimidation and violence and their effect on today’s #CityPolls in #Bangladesh.” (Sic)

“Disappointed that BNP is pulling out of all three #CityPolls in #Bangladesh,” she also twitted.

“Government promised free and fair elections and that's what people are expecting,” Bernicat told the journalists hoping for no more violence centering the elections.

Bernicat applauded people those who came to the polling centers “to help administer the elections and make sure that it is free and fair”.

The government would also remain careful so that people can rightfully exercise their right to vote, hoped the US ambassador.

BDST: 1600 HRS, APR 28 2015
HB/RR/SMS