“Voters must be given the opportunity to express freely their democratic choice,” the EU said in a statement on Friday, ahead of the Dhaka and Chittagong polls on Apr 28.

The 28-countries bloc also appealed to all sides to refrain from any actions that could spark “further violence” in Bangladesh.

The city corporation elections have apparently put a lid on the violent transport blockade that the BNP-led alliance continued for three months before it decided to back candidates in the polls and campaign for them.

BNP earlier boycotted the Jan 5, 2014 general elections.

But, its Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s motorcade was attacked allegedly by the ruling party activists thrice last week.

The EU said: “We look to political leaders to create favourable conditions for peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible elections to take place”.

“All political actors should take concrete steps to end violence, de-escalate tensions and engage in a constructive manner, for the long-term stability and democratic development of Bangladesh,” read the statement.