Bangladesh: BNP plans protest in Dhaka March 12 /update 7

Event

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning to hold a demonstration at Dhaka's Suhrawardy Udyan memorial on Monday, March 12, to demand the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

A heightened security presence and consequent transportation disruptions are expected near protests. 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. Multiple BNP-led demonstrations have erupted across the country in recent weeks 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.

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.