Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia on Wednesday called upon people to vote her party to power in the next general election for what she said to restore peace and democracy in Bangladesh.

"I call upon Dhaka city BNP to get united further as good days are ahead for the party. The next year will be a year of victory for BNP. Let's cast votes for the sheaf of paddy and restore peace and democracy, and take the country to the path of advancement," she said.

Khaleda Zia made the call while speaking at an iftar party arranged by Dhaka city south unit BNP at Bashundhara Intentional Convention Centre.

Though Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at different recent programmes urged people to cast votes for her party in the next polls, Khaleda Zia for the first time sought vote for her party today.

The BNP chief said Awami League is on a plot again to go to power by stealing votes in a unilateral election as the party fears polls seriously. "But, people won't allow it to do so. No lopsided election will be held in the country further."

She said her arch rival and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will have to join the next polls quitting power. "No election will be held under Hasina. She'll participate in the polls, but not by staying in power. The election must be held under an election-time supportive government with the participation of all parties."

She advised the leaders and activists of Dhaka city BNP's two units to make their organization stronger ahead of the national election.

The BNP chief expressed deep shock over the loss of huge lives in landslides in Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox's Bazar and Chittagong.

Khaleda Zia said people are enduring immense sufferings as the prices of essentials continue to rise regularly alongside the hike of power and gas tariffs.

She further alleged that the ruling party men are indulging in widespread plundering of public money in many ways instead of working for people.

The BNP chairperson said the government has kept on repressing BNP leaders and activists and making them disappeared even in this holy month of Ramadan.

She warned that the government will not be able to hang onto power by using law enforcers and suppressing people.

Khaleda Zia called upon the police to serve people instead of working for any party. "Ensure public security, and stand by people. Take action against ruling party offenders. You'll be there fine in the future as we've a plan to take various programmes for your welfare."