Bangladesh: UN condemns deaths, calls for calm after violence-marred polls

The United Nations (UN) called for restraint in Bangladesh after the elections stirred violence and claimed 19 lives and injured around 200 people.

"The UN is aware of violent incidents and reports of irregularities in Bangladesh's election...Violence and attacks on people and property are not acceptable" the Office of the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said on Monday (local time).

"We regret the loss of life and injuries sustained by candidates and voters during the electoral campaign and on election day," an official statement underscored.

The Spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, further said, "We welcome the participation of the opposition in elections for the first time in 10 years. We call on all sides to exercise restraint and ensure a peaceful post-electoral environment, where people can maintain their right to assembly and expression."

"We encourage the parties to address electoral complaints in a peaceful manner and through legal means," the statement concluded.

At least nine people have been arrested in relation to over 25 incidents of violence in the nation.