Bangladesh: BNP protest planned in Dhaka March 6 /update 30

Event

The Bangladesh National Party (BNP) will be holding a demonstration in support of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in Dhaka on Wednesday, March 6. Supporters will gather at the National Press Club starting at 11:00 (local time). Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around the protest site.

Context

Zia was jailed for five years in February 2018 in connection with an embezzlement scheme worth USD 250,000. Her BNP supporters claim the case is politically motivated and meant to keep her out of the December 2018 elections. The BNP has held regular protests in recent months demanding her release.

Advice

Individuals present in Dhaka, and Bangladesh more generally, are advised to avoid all public gatherings and political rallies as a precaution and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.