Bangladesh: Ruling Awami League party to hold week-long nationwide rallies beginning Aug. 2

Event

The ruling Awami League (AL) party will stage week-long nationwide demonstrations from Aug. 2 to mobilize grassroots-level support ahead of Bangladesh's January 2024 general election. As part of their action, AL activists may hold various types of rallies, including sit-ins and marches. Although AL organizers did not immediately announce specific start times or assembly points for the demonstrations, 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. Rival political parties could hold counterdemonstrations during various AL-led gatherings.

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 due to the increased potential for violence at political rallies 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.