Dhaka, Jan 30 — As Bangladesh gears up for its 13th Parliamentary election and a national referendum scheduled for February 12, the US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert advising American citizens to exercise heightened caution amid fears of political unrest and possible extremist attacks.
In an advisory released on Friday, the Embassy warned that election-related violence could target political rallies, polling stations, and religious sites, including churches, temples, and mosques. It noted that demonstrations intended to be peaceful may quickly escalate into confrontations and urged US citizens to avoid large gatherings and remain vigilant at all times.
“Bangladesh will hold parliamentary elections and a national referendum simultaneously on February 12, 2026. During the election period, political violence or extremist attacks may occur,” the advisory stated, adding that citizens should closely monitor local news and stay aware of their surroundings.
The Embassy also highlighted government-imposed transportation restrictions, including a ban on motorcycles starting February 10 and a halt to all transport on February 11 and 12. Due to these measures, the US Embassy will offer limited onsite services on the two days surrounding the vote.
Concerns over security have intensified following reports of escalating violence since the election campaign began. Local media have documented shootings, stabbings, vandalism, and clashes across multiple constituencies, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Election infrastructure such as campaign offices, vehicles, microphones, camps, and even CCTV cameras at polling stations have reportedly been vandalised or looted.
Amid the unrest, several candidates have filed General Diaries with local police, citing death threats and fears of targeted conspiracies, according to the Dhaka Tribune. Reports suggest that at least 24 people were injured this week alone in clashes across five districts, largely involving activists from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami.
The violence underscores deepening political tensions as former allies of the interim government’s Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, now face off in a fierce power struggle following the ouster of the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina.
