28 Jul 2023 | 08:59 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Rival political parties plan rallies at multiple locations in Dhaka July 29
Rival political parties plan to hold demonstrations at multiple locations in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 29. Increased security likely.
Event
Rival political parties have announced plans to rally in Dhaka July 29. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning to hold sit-in protests at several heretofore undisclosed entry points into Dhaka 11:00-16:00 to demand the resignation of the ruling government. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Awami Jubo League, the youth wing of the ruling Awami League (AL) party, is planning to stage counterdemonstrations at several entry points of the city, including Abdullahpur, Aminbazar, Babu Bazar, Gabtali, Jatrabari, Kanchpur, Signboard, and Tongi, starting at 11:00 to block the planned BNP protests.
Additional gatherings are possible across Dhaka District over the coming days. Potential demonstration sites include political party offices, as well as prominent government buildings, mosques, press clubs, sports grounds, public squares, and thoroughfares. Similar well-attended gatherings have attracted thousands of participants. Organizers may change the location and/or time of their gatherings with little-to-no notice due to security or organizational-related issues.
Authorities will almost certainly monitor the rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Officials may conduct mass arrests and use force, including tear gas and baton charges, to quell incidents of civil unrest. Security personnel may implement enhanced restrictions, including temporary restrictions on telecommunications and public gatherings, as a precaution or if significant violence occurs. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of opposing political groups, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators will probably march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions could also occur.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations due to the increased risk of violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for localized transport and business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
