Bangladesh, Aug. 20 -- Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has set out his hopes for a "happy and prosperous" Bangladesh as the BNP veteran prepares for a presidential election he is widely expected to win.

Speaking to bdnews24.com by telephone on Thursday, Fakhrul reflected on the transition ahead just hours before lawmakers were due to vote in the country's 23rd presidential election.

"I will miss many things. When I think about them, I find it difficult to contain my emotions," he said.

"I pray to the Almighty that everyone remains well, healthy and safe, and that everyone supports the government in building a welfare-oriented state."

Fakhrul said he hoped to see a Bangladesh where marginalised people and daily wage earners could afford t...