Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal yesterday urged all political parties to find a solution to end the political impasse.

"On behalf of the Election Commission, I humbly request all political parties to find a solution, avoiding conflict and violence," he said while announcing the schedule for the next general election.

He also urged all candidates, who will contest the upcoming election, to appoint the required number of honest, courageous, and skilled polling agents to protect their rights.

The CEC made the call when the BNP and several like-minded parties are enforcing blockades demanding that the next polls be held under a non-partisan election-time government.

CEC Awal said for a free, fair, inclusive, and festive election, there is a need for a conducive political environment.

But for a long time, the EC has been noticing differences among the political leadership regarding the polls, particularly on the issue of the institutional system of elections, he said.

There may be ideological differences in multi-party politics, he said, adding, "But if conflict and violence take place due to differences, instability can be created, which will have a negative impact on the election process."

So, consensus and solutions are needed, he said.

He requested the people to go to polling centres in festivity and exercise their voting rights freely, keeping aside all concerns, anxieties, and discomforts.

"The Election Commission will welcome the spontaneous participation and competition of all parties in the election," the CEC added.

He said reaching a consensus and finding a solution is not impossible through dialogue avoiding vengefulness and distrust.

Tolerance, trust, and compassion are essential determinants for sustainable and stable democracy, the CEC added.

He mentioned that they have invited all registered political parties several times but they rejected the call. He, however, did not mention the names of any political party.

Talking about the candidates, he said meaningful competition is an essential element of an election.