23 Aug 2023 | 11:55 AM UTC
Bangladesh: BNP to stage protest marches in major cities including Dhaka Aug. 26
Bangladesh Nationalist Party to hold marches in cities across Bangladesh, Aug. 26. Increased security, disruptions likely. Clashes possible.
Event
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will hold marches in major cities nationwide, Aug. 26. The action is part of a series of protests demanding the current government to resign and allow a non-partisan caretaker government to oversee the next general elections scheduled early 2024. Demonstrations will occur in Dhaka, Barisal, Chattogram, Cumilla, Gazipur, Khulna, Mymensingh, Narayanganj, Rajshahi, Rangpur, and Sylhet; specific venues and start times are not immediately clear. The BNP may reschedule and/or cancel their planned events at short notice due to police or court orders.
Rallies typically occur from the late morning through the late afternoon. Popular venues include BNP offices, prominent government buildings, press clubs, public squares such as parks, college and mosque grounds, as well as major intersections. Similar events in the past have attracted up to a few thousand participants, with multiple incidences of violent clashes and police action.
Authorities will almost certainly monitor the rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Enhanced security measures like limits on mobile internet services, and security checks at entry points to major cities are possible. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between members of rival political parties, cannot be ruled out. Officials could conduct mass arrests and/or resort to the use of force, including batons, tear gas, and live ammunition, in response to any security incidents. Traffic disruptions are likely along march routes; private transport operator unions affiliated with the ruling party may also hold strikes to curtail BNP supporters' movement to various rally locations. Localized business disruptions may occur, mainly if violence breaks out.
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 gathering sites; confirm road status and transport reservations. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
