25 May 2023 | 01:35 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Various opposition parties to hold marches in Dhaka on May 28 and from Dhaka to Dinajpur from June 4-6 /update 1
Various opposition parties in Bangladesh to march in Dhaka, May 28, and march from Dhaka to Dinajpur, June 4-6. Clashes possible.
Event
Ganatantra Mancha, an alliance of seven opposition parties that includes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), plans to hold marches in Dhaka on May 28 and march from Dhaka to Dinajpur June 4-6. The purpose of the events is to denounce the ruling administration led by the Awami League (AL) party. Organizers have called for action on the following dates:
May 28: Activists will rally at Malibagh Rail Gate at 10:30 and march towards the Badda area.
June 4-6: Participants will begin a road march toward Dinajpur from Dhaka. The start time and specific assembly points are unclear.
Authorities will likely deploy additional security along the march routes. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to the marches. Skirmishes may occur between police and protesters. Skirmishes may also occur if counterprotests take place in the vicinity.
Context
The BNP has been organizing its latest demonstration programs across the country to denounce the AL administration since mid-May. A clash between AL and BNP supporters in Patuakhali's Sylhet Sadar Upazila on May 20 led to at least 30 injured. On May 23, security personnel disperse BNP demonstrators in Dhaka's Science Lab area with tear gas after reported acts of vandalism.
Advice
Avoid all protests due to the increased risk of violence. Allow additional travel time if operating nearby the march routes. Monitor local media for updated information about security and road conditions. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area.
