Bangladesh: Activists to organize nationwide rallies May 1 to mark Labor Day

Event

Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, an affiliate and the labor wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), plans to stage rallies across Bangladesh May 1 to mark Labor Day. The largest rally will take place at BNP's office in Dhaka, from 14:30. Hundreds of people could participate in the action. Organizers have also called for rallies in other cities and district towns across the country.

Authorities will likely deploy additional security at the protest site and nearby areas as a precaution. Localized traffic disruptions are likely due to the presence of large numbers of people. Security forces may arrest participants if they consider any demonstration to be disruptive or if any rally lacks a public gathering permit. While the gathering will most likely pass off peacefully, clashes between police and demonstrators cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the protest sites May 1 due to increased security measures and possible clashes. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.