Bangladesh: CPB supporters to rally in Dhaka September 15

Event

The Communist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist) (CPB (M)) has called on supporters to gather and rally outside the Ministry of Textiles and Jute in the capital Dhaka on Tuesday, September 15, over several demands surrounding the closure of jute mills. Supporters are demanding the reopening of dozens of jute mills, reinstating the jute mill employees, and paying the workers arrears. Participants are expected to gather from 11:00 (local time).

Localized disruptions including road blockades in the vicinity of the rally are possible, as is a heightened security presence. Clashes between protesters and police are also possible, particularly if the security forces attempt to disperse the demonstration.

Context

The government announced the closure of 25 state-owned jute mills in June, which resulted in thousands of employees becoming unemployed. Protests have taken place since the closure and will likely continue in the medium term.

Advice

Those in Dhaka are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate transportation disruption in the vicinity of the protest, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.