20 Aug 2024 | 02:47 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Further protests and related disruptions likely nationwide through at least early September /update 23
Additional rallies, disruptions likely in Bangladesh through early September as interim government stabilizes. Exercise increased caution.
Further rallies and related disruptions are likely to persist nationwide through at least early September as the newly established interim government seeks to stabilize the country following the ousting of long-time Prime Minister and Awami League (AL) party leader Sheikh Hasina. In recent weeks, disruptive protests have occurred sporadically across Bangladesh. On Aug. 20, hundreds of student activists stormed the Secretariat in Dhaka to demand the cancellation of standardized examinations. On Aug. 21, Jubo Dal, the youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will stage demonstrations in all districts and cities.
On Aug. 25, authorities will resume metro rail services in Dhaka but will bypass certain locations that have sustained damage, including Mirpur 10, in recent weeks. Additionally, political tensions are likely to intensify as activists push for a legal ban on the AL, while the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami party and its affiliates work to reverse a ban imposed by the previous administration on Aug. 1; the Jamaat party was outlawed due to its alleged role in inciting violence during widespread protests that resulted in significant casualties and unrest across the country.
Civil Unrest/Violence
Political parties, including the AL, are likely to hold sporadic rallies to demand the return of Hasina; reports indicate that several AL leaders and family members have been killed amid the violence. Minority groups, including Hindus, have staged demonstrations following targeted attacks at various residences, businesses, and worship sites. Gatherings have also occurred near financial institutions to demand the resignation of senior officials over allegations of corruption and mismanagement; on Aug. 10, a gunfire incident left six employees wounded outside the Islami Bank headquarters in Dhaka's Motijheel area. Additionally, law enforcement officials have reportedly partially resumed their duties after beginning an indefinite strike in early August.
Additional gatherings of varying types, including work stoppages, are likely to continue nationwide and have the potential to attract tens of thousands of attendees. Potential gathering sites include transportation hubs, public squares, and major intersections. Isolated security incidents, including arson, looting, and vandalism, continue to occur sporadically across the country. Such attacks have targeted cultural venues, television channel offices, government buildings, and AL political party offices and leaders' residences.
Security Measures
Officials have lifted all curfew measures and restored mobile and broadband internet services. Educational institutions have reportedly reopened, though attendance remains low. As a precaution, increased security measures, including cordons and traffic restrictions, are likely in place at government, state-funded, and security installations. Checkpoints will almost certainly continue at major cities' entry points and air and land ports. The unrest has led countries like Australia, Canada, the US, and the UK to advise against all or nonessential travel to Bangladesh until further notice.
Transport Disruptions
The country's borders remain open amid increased security in the border areas. Bangladesh Railway (BR) has resumed full services. Inter-district and long-distance bus services have resumed in Dhaka, though the frequency remains limited. Domestic and international flights are available at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) and Sylhet's Osmani International Airport (ZYL). Airlines such as Air India (AI), Vistara (VTI), and IndiGo (6E) have resumed flights to Dhaka. However, other airlines may experience minor flight disruptions amid reduced demand, including delays and cancellations. Officials may also impose airport closures at short notice if significant unrest recurs.
The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has deployed additional personnel along the Meghalaya and Tripura states in India amid concerns of spillover violence. While trade has reportedly resumed at most border crossings, heightened security protocols could delay the movement of goods and people through land ports.
Business and Utility Disruptions
Several banks have reportedly suspended operations and ATM services amid concerns over the safety of cash transportation, prompting disruptions to financial transactions. Banking disruptions could occur if sporadic protest activity persists. Separately, the US Embassy in Dhaka has indefinitely suspended routine consular services, and only emergency services are available; previous non-immigrant visa appointments will be rescheduled. Other diplomatic facilities may announce suspensions or curtailment of services, especially in response to planned or ongoing large rallies.
Avoid all public gatherings due to the potential for increased violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm ground transport and flight arrangements before departure; do not check out of accommodations without confirming onward travel. Do not attempt to navigate any roadblocks, as protesters could attack vehicles. Plan accordingly for business disruptions. Heed all official instructions, including curfew orders, security and traffic advisories. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
In recent days, the frequency of nationwide demonstrations has decreased, and operational disruptions are likely to ease overall as the interim government stabilizes. The country is navigating political uncertainty following weeks of widespread protests. Initially spearheaded by university students, these demonstrations emerged in response to a controversial job quota system in government recruitment that allocates a significant portion of public sector jobs to descendants of veterans from the 1971 Liberation War.
The unrest peaked on Aug. 5, when Prime Minister Hasina resigned and fled the country after her residence was stormed, ending her 15-year tenure. On Aug. 8, an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus was inaugurated, with military officials engaging in transition discussions with student leaders. According to the constitution, elections must occur within 90 days of the dissolution of parliament; any delays in this timeline could potentially provoke further unrest.
