British High Commissioner in Dhaka Robert Gibson has expressed his disappointment that BNP felt it had to withdraw its endorsed candidates from the city corporation elections partway through voting today.

He hoped that the decision would not result in violence or disruption in Dhaka and Chittagong tonight and over the next few days.

"All parties must ensure that their response to today's events remains within the law. It will be important that all allegations of irregularity are investigated swiftly and impartially," the high commissioner said in press statement this afternoon.

"The responsibility remains with all parties, the Election Commission, and law enforcement agencies, to ensure that elections can take place in an ordered atmosphere to allow all voters the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights."
"Those candidates who are successful in being elected should seek to serve the needs and wishes of all the voters in both cities," Gibson added.