High-stakes Bangladesh elections: US Embassy sounds alarm for Americans

In its advisory, the Embassy cautioned: “U.S. citizens should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.”

The Embassy further advised American nationals to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution around large gatherings.

The alert comes after the Bangladesh Election Commission announced the schedule for the 13th national parliamentary elections, along with a referendum on the July Uprising, both set to take place on February 12.

The US Embassy urged its citizens to remain vigilant, avoid large crowds, closely monitor local media for updates, and stay aware of their surroundings throughout the election period.

In a televised address, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, as quoted by The Daily Star, appealed for peaceful participation in the democratic process.

“I call upon all political parties, contesting candidates, and voters to participate sincerely and extend active cooperation in the electoral process,” he said.

He added:“Rise above fear, temptation, deception, and limitations, and exercise your right to vote without hesitation. To ensure safe and festive participation, all relevant institutions and forces will be working.”

The election will determine 300 members of parliament.

The upcoming polls are particularly significant as they will be the first national election since the July–August 2024 Uprising, which led to the removal of the Sheikh Hasina-led government from power. Hasina is currently living in exile in India.

In November, a Bangladesh court sentenced Hasina to death for crimes against humanity.

Since her departure, the country has been governed by an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The interim government has also banned the Awami League, the party led by Hasina, preventing it from participating in the elections.