Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party and affiliated student wing to protest nationwide Oct. 20

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its student wing, the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Dal, plan to stage protests nationwide except in Khulna Division Oct. 20. The purpose of the action is to denounce recent instances of alleged arbitrary detention and unlawful discrimination against BNP activists.

While organizers have not yet announced specific details, typical protest venues include BNP district headquarters, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and roadways. The largest gatherings will likely occur in major cities and towns, where thousands of activists could congregate. The party may cancel and/or postpone any rallies at short notice due to organizational-related issues or other disruptions.

Authorities will likely monitor the protests and may attempt to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between protesters and police, as well as counterdemonstrators, are possible. Protesters may march along or block roadways, causing localized transport disruptions. Business disruptions are also possible near demonstration locations.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. If violence breaks out, depart the area immediately and seek shelter at a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time to reach destinations near protest locations. Heed all official transport and security advisories.