Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party announces new gathering locations for nationwide protest campaign as of Aug. 17 /update 1

Event

As of Aug. 17, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced new gathering locations for its ongoing series of nationwide protest campaigns which will occur through Aug. 19. The purpose of the action is to demand the resignation of the current administration and the release of its party chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. As of Aug. 17, organizers have announced the following details:

• Aug. 18: Demonstrators to organize mass processions in all metropolitan areas, including Dhaka. In Dhaka Metropolitan North, activists will gather in the Dayaganj area at 15:00 before proceeding toward the BNP headquarters in Naya Paltan. In Dhaka Metropolitan South, BNP supporters will march from the DCC market area of Gulshan-2 to Mohakhali Bus Station, starting at 15:00.

• Aug. 19: Protesters to hold nationwide vehicular marches.

Additional gatherings of varying types are possible through Aug. 19. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, sports grounds, press clubs, and thoroughfares. Previous similar events have attracted thousands of participants. The BNP may reschedule and/or cancel their planned events at short notice due to organizational or law enforcement-related restrictions.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor the rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of rival political camps, cannot be ruled out. Officials could conduct mass arrests and/or resort to the use of force, including baton charges and tear gas, in response to any security incidents. Demonstrators will probably march along and/or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.