Bangladesh: Jamaat-e-Islami party to hold marches in divisional-level cities nationwide Aug. 6

Event

The Jamaat-e-Islami party will stage marches in divisional-level cities across Bangladesh Aug. 6. The purpose of the action is to denounce several recent delays in the party's ability to organize a rally in Dhaka due to police-imposed restrictions. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, sports grounds, press clubs, and thoroughfares. Previous related events have attracted several thousand participants. The Aug. 6 demonstrations will coincide with a series of Awami League gatherings that began Aug. 2.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor the marches and may move to disperse any gatherings that become overly disruptive. 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 could block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the increased potential for violence ahead of the general election. 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.