29 Mar 2023 | 12:20 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party to hold nationwide sit-in protests April 1-20
Bangladesh Nationalist Party to stage nationwide sit-in rallies through April 1-20. Increased security, localized disruptions likely.
Event
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will stage nationwide sit-in protests April 1-20 to demand several concessions, including a push for the next general elections under a neutral caretaker government. Organizers have announced the following gathering times and locations:
April 1: Activists to organize protests in all cities and districts 14:00-16:00.
April 8: BNP supporters to stage demonstrations at the sub-district level 15:00-17:00.
April 9: Organizers to rally in Chittagong and Rangpur divisions 16:00-18:00.
April 10: Demonstrators to protest in Rajshahi and Sylhet divisions 16:00-18:00.
April 11: Protesters to rally in Cumilla and Khulna divisions 16:00-18:00.
April 12: Activists to demonstrate in Barisal and Dhaka divisions 16:00-18:00.
April 13: Organizers to rally in Faridpur and Mymensingh divisions 16:00-18:00.
BNP activists may stage additional demonstrations through April 20. Typical gathering sites include political party offices, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Though gathering sizes will vary by location, larger events will likely draw thousands of participants, especially in major urban centers.
Authorities will almost certainly increase security near BNP-related rally sites and attempt to forcibly disperse overly disruptive crowds. Security personnel typically resort to using force, such as tear gas and rubber bullets, to quell civil unrest incidents. Officials may also conduct mass arrests if activists defy orders to disperse. Clashes between police and BNP activists, as well as between BNP supporters and rival political groups, cannot be ruled out. Violence may occur at larger rallies. Activists may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations due to the increased potential for violence. If clashes break out, depart the area immediately and seek shelter at a secure, nongovernmental facility. Allow additional time near sites where gatherings materialize. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
