Dhaka: The European Union (EU) has called for a thorough investigation into the irregularities and acts of violence in the jest-held city corporations’ elections in Bangladesh saying voters were not given an opportunity to ‘fully express their democratic choice’.

“Irregularities and acts of violence must now be thoroughly investigated,” the EU Spokesperson said in a statement from Brussels, reports UNB.

The Spokesperson said there are credible reports that vote-rigging, intimidation and violence have marred the elections in Dhaka and Chittagong on 28 April, despite the calls from the international community for peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) made a late decision to boycott these elections, the statement said.

The EU expects all the political actors to refrain from violence, de-escalate tensions and engage in a constructive manner for the long-term stability and democratic development of Bangladesh, it said.