24 Jul 2023 | 06:39 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party to stage rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka July 27
Bangladesh Nationalist Party to rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka, Bangladesh, at 14:00 July 27. Tight security likely; violence possible.
Event
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will hold a rally at Dhaka's Suhrawardy Udyan park at 14:00 July 27. The demonstration is part of an ongoing series of protests by BNP and other opposition parties to demand Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign and allow the country's January 2024 elections to occur under a neutral caretaker government. The event could attract several hundred participants. BNP supporters may also gather at its party office on VIP Road, especially if authorities deny permission for the event at the original venue.
Tight security is almost certain in the vicinity of the rally site. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to the presence of large numbers of people and security cordons; traffic disruptions may be exacerbated if activists march on or block roadways. Attendees may clash with rival party supporters and/or police. Mass arrests and the use of force like batons and tear gas by the police cannot be ruled out.
Context
On July 18, violence occurred at multiple locations amid rallies by both ruling and opposition parties across the country, leaving at least one killed and over 200 wounded. The risk of violence remains elevated.
Advice
Avoid the protest due to the risk of violence. Confirm road status in Dhaka July 27 before planning journeys; allow additional travel time. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately for a secure nongovernmental building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
