Dhaka, Jan 30 (NationPress) As Bangladesh gears up for its 13th Parliamentary election and a national referendum on February 12, the US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert, advising American citizens residing in the South Asian country to remain vigilant. The advisory cautions that rallies which are initially planned to be peaceful may escalate into confrontational situations.

The Embassy has underscored the potential for political violence or extremist activities during this electoral period, which could affect rallies, polling stations, and places of worship, including churches, temples, and mosques.

“On February 12, 2026, Bangladesh will simultaneously conduct parliamentary elections and a national referendum. There is a possibility of political violence or extremist attacks occurring during this time, especially targeting rallies, polling locations, and religious sites such as churches, temples, and mosques. US citizens are urged to remain observant and to understand that demonstrations meant to be peaceful can quickly turn violent. It is advisable to avoid large gatherings and remain cautious in their vicinity,” stated the US Embassy's advisory.

“The Bangladeshi government has announced transportation restrictions starting on February 10 for motorcycles, with all types of transport limited on February 11 and 12. Consequently, the US Embassy in Dhaka will offer limited services on these dates. Actions to consider include avoiding large crowds and demonstrations while staying aware of your environment and monitoring local news,” it further elaborated.

Recent local media reports indicate that as campaigning intensifies for the upcoming elections, rising violence—including threats and assaults against candidates and law enforcement—has raised alarms over the safety and security of the electoral process nationwide.

Since the campaign began, incidents of shootings, stabbings, vandalism, and clashes across multiple constituencies have reportedly resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities.

Moreover, election-related infrastructure, including camps, microphones, offices, vehicles, and even CCTV systems at polling stations, have faced vandalism or looting in various areas.

In light of the escalating tensions, several candidates have filed General Diaries (GDs) at police stations seeking protection due to death threats and concerns of conspiracies against them, as reported by the Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune.

Reports suggest that political violence during the election campaigning has left approximately 24 individuals injured in confrontations among political activists across five districts this week, primarily involving members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami.

Political violence has been on the rise in Bangladesh as the nation approaches the February 12 elections.

The parties that once collaborated with the interim government’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus to topple the democratically elected government led by Sheikh Hasina are now caught in a fierce power struggle to secure victory in the forthcoming elections.