Bangladesh: BNP plans nationwide protests February 17, 18, 20 /update 4

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning nationwide protests on Saturday, February 17, Sunday, February 18, and Tuesday, February 20, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and free and fair elections. It is expected to launch a large signature campaign on Saturday; on Sunday, BNP officials are planning on lobbying and presenting related material to district officials nationwide. The BNP is planning to organize associated protests and demonstrations throughout Bangladesh on Tuesday; BNP officials also have requested government permission to hold a rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka in the near future.

A heightened security presence and consequent transportation disruptions are expected near protests that occur. Additional related demonstrations are possible across Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka, in the coming days.

Context

Khaleda Zia, the former Bangladeshi prime minister and current chairperson of the country's primary opposition party, the BNP, was convicted of corruption at a special court in Dhaka on February 8. Zia was sentenced to five years in jail, and she will remain in custody until an appeal is filed; she is expected to soon be released on bail. Multiple BNP-led demonstrations have erupted across the country in recent days demanding Zia's release and free and fair elections.

Zia has often said political vendettas under the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina motivate the cases against her and her sons. She could be barred from participating in the general elections slated for December 2018 if the appeal is unsuccessful or if she remains held on additional charges.

BNP officials have claimed that at least 4300 supporters of the political opposition have been arrested over the past two weeks to suppress popular resistance to Zia's sentencing and imprisonment.

Advice

Individuals present in Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka, are advised to monitor the situation, exercise caution, and avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings due to the possibility of violence. Follow all instructions issued by the local authorities.