19 Nov 2021 | 02:04 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) activists plan nationwide protests 09:00-16:00 Nov. 20
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to protest nationwide 09:00-16:00 Nov. 20. Tight security likely; disruptions possible at action sites.
Event
Members of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) plan to hold hunger strikes and demonstrations nationwide 09:00-16:00 Nov. 20. The purpose of the action is to demand the ruling Bangladesh Awami League party allow former prime minister, Khaleda Zia, to obtain medical treatment overseas for an alleged critical illness. Authorities are banning Zia from traveling outside Bangladesh due to a past conviction over corruption charges. While BNP leaders have not announced specific venues or timings, probable protest locations include BNP offices, press clubs, public squares, and government buildings. Turnout will vary by location; hundreds of supporters may gather in larger cities like Dhaka.
Security personnel will likely monitor large gatherings and could enforce COVID-19 measures. Protesters may block roadways, resulting in localized transport disruptions. Clashes have occurred during earlier BNP rallies; similar violence is possible, especially if security forces attempt to disperse protesters forcibly.
Advice
Avoid protests Nov. 20 as a precaution. Plan for possible localized disruptions. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Heed all instructions from security personnel.
