The United States Embassy in Bangladesh on Tuesday alerted US citizens staying in Dhaka and other cities over possible confrontation and violence centering political rallies as the general election was drawing nearer.
‘The next general election is anticipated to occur before or during January 2024, and political party rallies and other election-related activities have already commenced. Political rallies and demonstrations may be held with increasing frequency or intensity as the general election draws nearer,’ the US embassy said in a demonstration alert.
It said that the US citizens should practice vigilance and remember that ‘demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence’.
‘You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates,’ the alert notice mentioned.
The US embassy issued the alert a day before the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s scheduled rally and the ruling Awami League’s counter rally in Dhaka.
