Bangladesh: Bangladesh Nationalist Party to rally at its party office on VIP Road in Dhaka July 22

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) plans to rally at its party office on VIP Road in Dhaka on July 22. The BNP and other opposition parties are organizing rallies to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to allow the country's January 2024 elections to occur under a neutral caretaker government. The start time of the event is not immediately clear. The event will likely attract at least hundreds of people.

Authorities have permitted the BNP to hold the rally and will almost certainly maintain tight security in the vicinity of the rally site. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to the presence of large numbers of people and increased security measures. Clashes are possible, especially if counterprotests occur nearby. Police may conduct mass arrests.

Context

On July 18, violence occurred at multiple locations amid rallies by political parties across the country, leaving at least one killed and over 200 wounded. The risk of violence remains elevated.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the elevated risk of violence. Allow additional travel time if operating along the VIP Road. Monitor trusted local sources for updates on rallies and related disruptions. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately.