29 Dec 2019 | 06:21 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Dhaka North and South City elections due January 30
Election Commission confirms Dhaka North and South City Corporation elections on January 30, 2020; heightened security presence and associated demonstrations expected over the near term
Event
The Election Commission announced on Sunday, December 22, that the elections to Dhaka South City Corporation and North City Corporation will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2020. The Chief Election Commissioner also confirmed that the polls will use electronic voting machines (EVMs) instead of traditional ballot boxes, and that the army will not be deployed to the polling stations. However, there will be a heightened security presence in the capital.
Political rallies and protests are expected in the lead up to the elections and following the result of the elections; a heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated near all such demonstrations.
Advice
Individuals in Dhaka are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public political demonstrations due to the risk of violence, anticipate localized disruptions on January 30, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.