Online Desk: The “peace and development” procession of the ruling Awami League has started from the Satrasta intersection following a brief rally. Thousands of activists of AL and its associated bodies have joined the procession.

While speaking at the rally, AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader urged the BNP to quit the path of movement and to take part in the polls to retain their honour. “Quit your movements and take part in the polls. In the last election, you got only seven [seats] … It is up to you whether you will take part in the polls. But if you want to foil it, then we will resist you.”

He alleged that the BNP has resorted to violence after failing in the movements. “The BNP wants elections excluding Sheikh Hasina. But the United States has said that no election should be held excluding anyone. The BNP has only one problem — taking part in the election under Sheikh Hasina.”

Addressing the AL men, Quader said, “Please remain calm. They [BNP] want to create chaos. But we are in power, why would we engage in chaos.”