Patricia A Butenis, who arrived here on April 3 and presented her credentials to the president on April 13, hoped that the government and the opposition will talk out their political disagreements and ensure free and fair elections.

The 12th US envoy in Bangladesh at the outset of her tenure yesterday termed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Ziaur Rahman the two "architects of Bangladesh's independence" and paid her rich tributes to them.

She said the ideals of these two leaders are the resources of the people of this country.

Butenis told reporters that the conflicting political situation is not good for a developing democracy and suggested resolving all disagreements through talks.

"We see the government and opposition talking [as] very encouraging," she said and urged all political parties to avoid the path of violence and strikes, which is "really very disruptive to average citizens".

She said the democratic institutions must be active in solving problems. The media and parliament can also play a vital role in halting confrontational politics, she added.

Observing that the government, the opposition and people are preparing for the next general elections, she called for participation of all political parties in the forthcoming general elections in a level playing field and ensuring free and fair elections, free from violence, intimidation and attempted cheating.

Earlier at 9:55am, Butenis placed wreaths first at Zia's grave at Chandrima Udyan where BNP leaders Mofiqul Hasan Tripti and Zahiruddin Swapan received her.

Saluting the late president, she described Ziaur Rahman as "a great leader in Bangladesh's struggle for independence". She wrote her remarks in the condolence book.

Later around 10:25am, the newly appointed US ambassador went to Bangabandhu Bhaban at Dhanmondi-32 where she placed wreaths at the portrait of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Awami League Presidium member Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim took Butenis to different rooms of the historic house. She witnessed the bloodstained spots of the carnage on August 15, 1975, and pictures depicting Bangabandhu's long struggle for the country's independence.

Butenis stayed there for half an hour, keenly observing the mementos of the assassinated leader.

"I am very moved and saddened by the tragedy that took place at this house and for the great suffering of the people of Bangladesh throughout their shocking but proud history," she wrote in the visitor's book at Bangabandhu Bhaban.

"The way to honour Sheikh Mujib's memory is through free and fair elections," she added.