The US Embassy in Bangladesh issued a security alert on Friday about possible “political violence” during Bangladesh’s general election and national referendum. Citing the possibility of ‘extremist attacks’, the embassy advised citizens to avoid protests and take precautions.
Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chant slogans as they attend an election campaign in Dhaka. (Reuters)Bangladesh will hold simultaneous parliamentary elections and a national referendum on February 12, 2026.
The US has warned of possible extremist attacksIt said that during the election period, “political violence or extremist attacks may occur, potentially targeting rallies, polling stations and places of worship.”
According to the security alert, US citizens were advised to avoid demonstrations and take precautions around large gatherings. “Be aware that demonstrations or gatherings intended to be peaceful can become confrontational and may escalate into violence,” says a security alert on the US embassy’s website.
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It also reported that the Bangladesh government announced restrictions on motorcycles on February 10 and all transport on February 11 and 12.
The US Embassy in Dhaka will also have limited onsite services on February 11 and 12, it said.
Citizens are advised to avoid public gatheringsThe embassy advised citizens to take various measures to ensure safety during this period. These include avoiding large crowds and demonstrations, being aware of your surroundings, and monitoring local news. It advised US citizens to be vigilant, keep a low profile and carry charged mobile phones for emergency communications.
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It asked citizens to review their personal security plans and alternate travel routes.
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The first election after the ouster of Sheikh HasinaThe upcoming elections on February 12 will be the first after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted by a landslide last year. The last election was held in January 2024, when Hasina returned to office for a fourth consecutive term.
Due to the movement, Hasina fled the country in August and went into exile. The Yunus-led administration has banned all activities of Hasina’s Awami League party, meaning the former ruling party cannot enter the contest.
On Thursday, the Election Commission of Bangladesh directed government officials to refrain from campaigning for ‘yes’ votes in the upcoming referendum, calling such acts a “punishable offence”, PTI reported.
It said that engaging in such campaigning could influence the outcome of the referendum and would therefore be considered a punishable offence.
