Demonstration Notice

May 5, 2009

The Bangladeshi Police have informed the Embassy of a planned demonstration at the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) central headquarters in Naya Paltan beginning at 1500 today, May 5th. The protestors are expected to move south from BNP headquarters through Muktangan towards the Press Club where they are expected to disperse.

The Embassy advises all Americans to avoid the Naya Paltan area for the remainder of today, May 5th.

We remind all Americans to exercise vigilance when traveling in Dhaka as demonstrations can occur with little warning. Please be alert and aware at all times and vary routes and schedules. We encourage all American Citizens to carry their mobile phones with them at all times.

Please monitor the local media for updates. English language local news is available on the following channels at the following times:

ATN – 1800
Bangla Vision – 2105
BTV – 2200
BTV – 2330 (also broadcasts by all local satellite stations: ATN, Channel I, NTV, RTV, Bangla Vision, and Boishaki)