14 Aug 2023 | 06:35 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Country to commemorate annual National Mourning Day nationwide Aug. 15
Bangladesh to observe annual National Mourning Day Aug. 15. Demonstrations, clashes possible. Exercise caution.
Event
Bangladesh will observe the annual National Mourning Day public holiday Aug. 15. The country will host several official events, including a public gathering at Dhaka's Bangabandhu Memorial Museum. The event will likely draw hundreds of thousands of participants in Dhaka. The ruling Awami League (AL) party is certain to hold public gatherings nationwide on Aug. 15. Opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, may also hold related demonstrations. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, public squares, sports grounds, press clubs, and thoroughfares; such gatherings may be well attended.
Authorities will maintain an increased security presence nationwide, especially in Dhaka. Security personnel will conduct enhanced surveillance, implement road closures, and are likely to maintain a heightened posture near hotels and other similar public areas. Some vehicular movement restrictions will occur in Dhaka to facilitate the larger gathering at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and will probably be implemented in other urban centers. Clashes between police and activists, as well as among supporters of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Activists may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.
Context
National Mourning Day is observed annually on Aug. 15 to commemorate the assassination of the country's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with most of his family members, in a military coup on that day in 1975. The day is marked by various events and activities, including flag hoisting at half-mast, special prayers, and discussions about Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's contributions to the nation's independence. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina plays a pivotal role in commemorating National Mourning Day in Bangladesh, leading the nation in remembering the assassination of her father.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm transportation and business arrangements in advance. Carry proper identification documents at all times. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
