09 Aug 2024 | 01:10 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Nationwide tensions and unrest likely to persist through at least mid-August /update 21
Further rallies, tensions, related disruptions likely in Bangladesh through mid-August after interim government sworn in. Exercise caution.
Further rallies, increased security, and related transport and business disruptions are likely to continue nationwide through at least mid-August. On Aug. 5, Awami League (AL) party leader and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and departed the country following a massive protest march led by student activists amid a prolonged nationwide curfew and violent unrest. The violence has left more than 400 people killed and thousands of others wounded. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Oikya Parishad, a non-profit dedicated to protecting minority rights, has reported 205 incidents targeting these communities in 52 districts since Aug. 5.
On Aug. 8, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and founder of Grameen Bank, was sworn in as the chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government, along with several other members. Dr. Yunus was previously sentenced to six months in prison for allegedly violating labor laws, which he claims are politically motivated. Authorities have indicated the caretaker administration will prioritize legal reforms and could be in charge for two years. Officials have also released several political prisoners, including opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Khaleda Zia.
As of Aug. 9, officials have lifted a nationwide curfew, and digital communications remain operational. Isolated security incidents, including arson, looting, and vandalism, continue to occur sporadically across the country. Such attacks have targeted cultural venues, television channel offices, and government buildings, as well as AL political party offices and leaders’ residences. On Aug. 9, clashes occurred at Chattogram Central Jail before the army was deployed to contain the situation; sources suggest no detainees have escaped.
Disruptive demonstrations continue to materialize nationwide. On Aug. 8, the AL activists carrying improvised weapons staged demonstrations, including a highway blockade in Kashiani Upazila, Dhaka Division. Unionized police officers previously initiated an indefinite nationwide strike to demand the safety of security personnel following purported targeted attacks on 450 police stations and the killing of several officers on Aug. 5; as of Aug. 9, reports indicate that officers are gradually resuming their duties in many areas.
Remain in a secure location until the situation stabilizes. 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.
Student-led protests in Bangladesh, which began in July over job quotas, have grown into a larger movement against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government. Despite a Supreme Court ruling that eliminated most job quotas, unrest has persisted, leading to over 300 deaths and thousands of injuries. In response, the government imposed curfews, shut down the internet, and deployed the military.
On Aug. 5, Hasina resigned and left the country after her residence was stormed, ending her 15-year rule. An interim government has been established, with military plans for transition discussions with student leaders. The interim officials were sworn in on Aug. 8, but instability may continue as Bangladesh navigates this political upheaval. Hasina has indicated she will return once elections are announced.
The unrest has led countries, such as Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US, to advise against all or nonessential travel to Bangladesh until further notice. The US Embassy in Dhaka has announced that its routine consular services are indefinitely suspended, with only emergency services available for its citizens; previous non-immigrant visa appointments will be rescheduled.
