The United States today deplored political violence surrounding the city elections in Dhaka, and called on all of those involved in the elections to uphold their responsibility to ensure the polls are free, fair, and non-violent.

"We condemn in the strongest terms the use of violence for political objectives," the US said in a statement from its embassy in Dhaka.

The US also urged the security forces to permit free expression and association during election campaign to protect candidates against political violence, and to prosecute those who violate the law.