Dhaka, Dec 15 (NationPress) The US Embassy in Bangladesh has issued a security warning on Monday, urging US citizens residing in the country to remain alert and steer clear of demonstrations that may escalate into violent confrontations.

The advisory highlighted that political rallies and protests are likely to become more prevalent as the next parliamentary elections and a national referendum in Bangladesh are set for February 12, 2026.

"The Election Commission of Bangladesh has confirmed that the forthcoming parliamentary election and national referendum will occur on February 12, 2026. As this date approaches, expect political rallies and demonstrations to grow in frequency and intensity," the US Embassy in Bangladesh noted on X.

"It is crucial for US citizens to remain vigilant, as demonstrations intended to be peaceful can quickly become confrontational and lead to violence. Avoid demonstrations and exercise caution near large gatherings. Suggested actions include: being aware of your surroundings, monitoring local media for updates, avoiding crowds, and steering clear of protests," the alert stated.

This announcement follows the shooting incident of Sharif Osman Hadi, a possible independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency in the upcoming elections, who was shot in the head in broad daylight in Bijoynagar on December 12.

The assailants reportedly arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire at Hadi - spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, a radical group in Bangladesh - while he was in a rickshaw in the Box Culvert area of Bijoynagar, Dhaka. He remains in critical condition and is scheduled to be transferred to Singapore on Monday for advanced medical care.

This attack occurred mere hours after the Election Commission announced the election timetable, indicating that the 13th national parliamentary election and the July Charter referendum will be held on February 12 next year.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin made this announcement in a pre-recorded broadcast on state-run Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar on December 11.

The election schedule indicates that December 29 is the deadline for nomination submissions, with scrutiny from December 30 to January 4. Candidates can withdraw their nominations until January 26, while the election campaigning is set to commence on January 22, as reported by the Bangladeshi media outlet United News of Bangladesh (UNB).

Bangladesh has experienced a concerning rise in violence and a deteriorating law and order situation under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.