Patel meets Hasina

After the half-hour meeting, the WB official told reporters that they had discussed development, economic and political issues of Bangladesh.

Problems in power, education and health sectors also came up during the discussion, he added.

Saber Hossain Chowdhury, political secretary to Hasina, told reporters that accountability of the government is a must for good governance. But accountability cannot be ensured unless the election is held in a free and fair atmosphere.

He also said that the Awami League expects that all concerned, including the development partners and donors, would come forward to ensure a free, fair and credible general election in the country.

World Bank Country Director Christina Wallich and Awami League leaders Kazi Zafrullah MP, Dr Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir and Saber Hossain Chowdhury were present at the meeting.