20 Jun 2018 | 03:15 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Opposition demonstrations planned in Dhaka June 21
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) calls for demonstrations in Dhaka on June 21; avoid all protests and anticipate transportation disruptions
Event
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has called for demonstrations to take place in Dhaka on Thursday, June 21. According to local sources, demonstrators are expected to rally near the Old Central Jail complex to demand the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia from prison. Similar demonstrations are possible in other major cities throughout Bangladesh. Heightened security measures, as well as associated transportation disruptions, are expected in the vicinity of any gatherings.
Context
The BNP has been organizing regular demonstrations to demand that former Prime Minister and current chairperson of the BNP Khaleda Zia be released from prison. Zia was convicted of corruption at a special court in Dhaka on February 8 and sentenced to five years in jail. Multiple BNP-led demonstrations have erupted across the country in recent months demanding Zia's release as well as free and fair elections.
Advice
Individuals present in Bangladesh, and notably Dhaka, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, exercise caution, and avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings due to the possibility of violence.
