Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina defends elections that have been criticised for a low turnout and widespread violence.
She faces media a day after the polls.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) BANGLADESH PRIME MINISTER SHEIKH HASINA SAYING:
"It doesn't mean that there will be a question of legitimacy or anything, no. People participated in the poll, and other political party - they participated."
The polls were boycotted by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party because the practice of having a caretaker government during election time was scrapped.
This paved the way for Hasina's Awami League to secure two-thirds of seats in parliament.
The Prime Minister said she is open to talking with the opposition about holding fresh elections, but only if they halt strikes and attacks against security forces and civilians.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) BANGLADESH PRIME MINISTER SHEIKH HASINA SAYING:
"They should stop all these violent activities, and if they do it, then there is a possibility.."
The elections have done nothing to resolve a bitter stalemate between Hasina and BNP Chief Begum Khaleda Zia.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL BANGLADESH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IFTEKHAR ZAMAN, SAYING:
" I even don't hesitate to say that the fate of democracy, and the fate of the people of this country are really hostage to the personal rivalry of the two top leaders."
The instability has crippled Bangladesh's economy, driving away investors and affecting the 22-billion dollar garment industry.
