20 Dec 2023 | 07:33 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Political rallies certain to continue nationwide through at least early January /update 15
Political rallies certain to persist across Bangladesh through at least early January. Tight security, disruptions, violence likely.
Several political parties will almost certainly continue their ongoing series of various protest campaigns across Bangladesh through at least early January to demand various concessions ahead of the nation's Jan. 7, 2024 general election. As of early Dec. 21, the main opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) and other political groups have announced the following details:
Dec. 21-23: BNP and other like-minded organizations to stage mass nationwide protest campaigns.
Dec. 22: Islami Andolan Bangladesh party to hold a rally at an undisclosed location in Dhaka.
Dec. 24: BNP and other similar groups to organize a one-day transport blockade program across Bangladesh.
Additional demonstrations of varying types by political parties, including the ruling Awami League (AL) and BNP, are highly likely over the coming weeks. Counterdemonstrations may materialize at short notice during such events. Potential gathering sites include prominent government buildings, including police stations and election commission offices, as well as public squares, political party offices, sports fields, mosques, press clubs, and major thoroughfares. Organizers may delay or cancel any planned action with little-to-no notice due to several reasons, including law enforcement-related or organizational issues.
The BNP and other like-minded organizations have repeatedly planned transport blockades, shutdown strikes (hartals), and other protest campaigns to demand the resignation of the current administration and that the general election be handled by a neutral caretaker government. The transport blockades have previously caused widespread disruptions to various passenger and freight transport services in Bangladesh, especially in Chattogram and Dhaka. Inter-city vehicular movement between major urban centers is likely to remain limited during any planned action. Shipping disruptions are likely. Activists will likely block major roadways, rail tracks, and ferry docks. Some local businesses may temporarily suspend operations due to the non-availability of transport for workers. Violence has occurred on several occasions, including isolated incidents of arson and vandalism. Related actions will almost certainly disrupt transport and business services to varying degrees across the country.
Activists have also previously threatened to stage sit-in protests and blockades near prominent government buildings in Dhaka, including the Bangladesh Secretariat, Election Commission, and Prime Minister's Office. While participation will probably vary by locale and sponsoring political groups, previous well-attended events have attracted hundreds of thousands of participants in major urban centers like Chittagong and Dhaka. Authorities are maintaining an increased security presence across Bangladesh, particularly in major urban centers. Authorities may conduct mass arrests or resort to using force, including baton charges and tear gas, in response to security incidents. Officials may implement enhanced security restrictions, including temporary public movement and/or telecommunication curbs, depending on the severity of the perceived threat. Clashes between police and activists and between members of rival political camps cannot be ruled out. Further isolated security incidents, including arson and vandalism, are possible. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are highly likely.
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. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
