Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday held the BNP responsible for its polls debacle.

“The BNP got seven seats in the election only because of them. There is no fault on our part," she told foreign election observers and the media at the Cono Bhaban.

Hasina alleged that the BNP indulged in nomination trade and put its nominations on auction. Many competent BNP candidates who had good prospects of winning the polls were left out, she added.

"They had just indulged in trade while picking their candidates. What can you expect from them? That's the question. People gave their mandate in favour of us."

Responding to a query, the PM said the priority of her new government would be to complete the projects that have already been taken up. "We've endorsed different projects; we will have to work on them. Now, the most important thing is to ensure the safety and security of our people.'

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