Bangladesh: Political gatherings likely to continue nationwide through at least early February following recent general elections /update 18

Political rallies are likely to persist across Bangladesh through at least early February, following the recent general elections held on Jan. 7. As of Jan. 23, the main opposition, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), plans to stage protest marches in urban centers nationwide on Jan. 26-27. The purpose of the action is to denounce rising commodity prices and demand the release of several BNP activists and leaders.

Additional rallies of varying types, including shutdown strikes (hartals), are likely to continue over the coming weeks; Activists seek to demand several concessions and denounce alleged irregularities in the electoral process. Such actions have also previously included transport blockades, which have caused widespread disruptions to various passenger and freight transport services in major urban centers, especially in Chattogram and Dhaka. During such events, inter-city vehicular movement and shipping services typically remain limited. Some local businesses may temporarily suspend operations due to the ongoing civil unrest. 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.

The ruling Awami League (AL) party could also stage rallies to mobilize grassroots-level support. Counterdemonstrations may materialize at short notice during any planned political events by both the ruling and opposition parties. 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. 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. Organizers may delay or cancel any planned action with little to no notice due to several reasons, including law enforcement-related restrictions.

Officials will almost certainly monitor any such gatherings that materialize. Authorities may conduct mass arrests or resort to using force, including baton charges and tear gas, in response to security incidents. Security personnel may implement enhanced restrictions, including temporary public movement and/or telecommunication curbs, depending on the severity of the perceived threats. Clashes between police and activists, as well as among members of rival political camps, cannot be ruled out.