Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party announces specific assembly points for protest marches in Dhaka afternoon Aug. 11 /update 1

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced specific assembly points for its plan to stage protest marches in Dhaka on the afternoon of Aug. 11; activists will gather following the Friday Islamic afternoon prayers. The purpose of the action is to demand the resignation of the current administration and that the January 2024 general election be held under a neutral caretaker government. In Dhaka Metropolitan North, BNP supporters will gather at Suvastu Tower in the Badda area before marching to Abul Hotel in Rampura. In Dhaka Metropolitan South, activists will lead a procession from Kamalapur Stadium to Malibagh Railway Gate.

Additional demonstrations of varying types are possible on Aug. 11. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, sports grounds, press clubs, and thoroughfares. Previous well-attended events have attracted thousands of participants. Opposing political parties may hold counterdemonstrations during the BNP-led gatherings; the BNP protests will coincide with the ruling Awami League (AL) party's ongoing nationwide rallies that began on Aug. 2.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor the rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists, as well as among 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 could march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible through the evening of Aug. 11.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the increased potential for violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near the gathering site. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.