Sangsad Bhaban, Feb. 7 -- Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday credited her government's democratic spirit for making last month's parliamentary election free, fair and participatory.

In reply to a question from Awami League's Bhola-2 MP Ali Azam, during question-and-answer session in parliament the PM also praised the Election Commission of Bangladesh for playing an effective role in conducting the polls.

"The 12th Parliamentary elections were fair, free and participatory due to the government's actions, liberal and democratic spirit and respect for the rule of law," she told the House.

Melinda Gates congratulates PM Hasina on re-election, lauds Bangladesh's dev

The EC, she said, has become an effective institution like its coun...