27 Sep 2018 | 02:34 AM UTC
Bangladesh: BNP shifts Dhaka protest to September 29 /update 27
Rival political alliance announces counter-protest as Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) postpones rally in Dhaka to September 29; heightened security measures expected
Event
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced it will postpone its rally planned in Dhaka from Thursday, September 27, to Saturday, September 29. Dhaka police officials denied the BNP’s permit to hold the event on Thursday because it was a working day. BNP supporters will gather at Suhrawardy Udyan starting at 14:00 (local time) on Saturday.
In response to the BNP rally, the Awami League alliance said it will hold a counter-protest in Dhaka. Awami League leaders called for supporters to gather at Mahanagar Natya Mancha at 15:00. Heightened security measures and traffic disruptions are expected around both events. Clashes between rival political supporters cannot be ruled out
Context
The BNP is demanding the release of their imprisoned chairperson, Khaleda Zia. Zia was jailed for five years in February 2018 in connection with an embezzlement scheme worth USD 250,000. Her BNP supporters claim the case is politically motivated and a bid to keep Zia out of the next general elections, scheduled for December 2018.
Advice
Individuals present in Dhaka are advised to avoid all public gatherings and political rallies as a precaution and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.
