Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) plans nationwide protests July 29-31 over power shortages

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) plans to protest across Bangladesh July 29-31 over ongoing power shortages. Rallies will occur in cities including Barisal, Chittagong, Comilla, Dhaka, Gazipur, Khulna, Mymensingh, Narayanganj, Rajshahi, and Sylhet, July 29-30. District-level protests will happen July 31. Leaders have yet to announce venue and timing details; activists typically gather from the late morning through late afternoon. Popular protest sites include BNP offices, government buildings, public squares, major markets, and press clubs. Dozens to a few hundred supporters may join each event; the highest participation is likely at events in Dhaka North July 29 and Dhaka South July 30.

Security personnel will likely monitor large gatherings. Activists may block or march on roadways, prompting localized traffic disruptions. Officials typically use force to disperse particularly disruptive protests. Clashes may occur, especially if security forces attempt to disperse demonstrators forcibly. Potentially violent protests may break out in retaliation to police action. Violent altercations between rival party members during or immediately after demonstrations are possible.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Plan for possible localized disruptions and allow additional travel time near demonstrations. Heed all instructions from security personnel.