'Don't Need Foreign Media Approval As Long As...': Bangladesh PM Hasina On Polls Amid BNP Boycott

PM Sheikh Hasina expressed her gratitude to the people for exercising their franchise and exuded confidence on clinching her fourth term in office.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina speaks to the media after casting her vote for the country's general elections, in Dhaka.

New Delhi: Amid boycott by main Opposition, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday said she does not care about foreign media’s “approval” of the parliamentary elections as she is only concerned with her acceptance to the people of the country, news agency PTI reported.

“Whether people accept this election or not it is important to me. So, I don't care about their (foreign media) acceptance. No matter what the terrorist party say. I have to prove credibility. Right, but, to whom, a terrorist party? A terrorist organisation? No, I have my accountability to my people. (I think) whether the people accept the election or not, and that is important to me,” PTI quoted PM Hasina as saying.

Speaking on the interference of other nations, she said her Awami League party does not care what others say as long as her people support her.

“Bangladesh is a sovereign and independent country. It may be a small country, but it has a large population--- I don't bother who says what, as the people is our main strength,” Hasina said, as reported the news agency.

The Prime Minister also expressed her gratitude to the people for exercising their franchise and exuded confidence on clinching her fourth term in office.

“There were several obstacles and hurdles, but the people of the country were cautious about their voting rights. The national election is held every five years. And people will cast their votes freely and we have been able to create that conducive environment,” PM Hasina said, adding, “InshaAllah, we will win the election and form the government. No doubt about it. We have faith and confidence in people that they will vote on the Boat symbol.”

Bangladesh’s 12th general elections were held on Sunday. The results will be announced on Monday.