Election atmosphere in Bangladesh: American citizens advised to be alert, Embassy issued alert

The US Embassy has issued a security alert for all US citizens in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections and national opinion poll in Bangladesh (12 February 2026). The alert warns that political rallies and demonstrations may intensify as the election date approaches, and that sometimes even seemingly peaceful demonstrations may suddenly turn violent. In such a situation, the embassy has advised all citizens to take precautions.

The US Embassy has advised citizens to stay away from crowds, avoid going to the protest site, keep an eye on local media and remain alert. The alert also says that American citizens should be attentive to their surrounding environment and be prepared to avoid any unexpected situation.

According to experts, political tension is increasing in Bangladesh, as the next election and opinion poll are being held simultaneously, and the competition between major political parties is quite intense. Protests and rallies are going on before the elections, in which there is a possibility of violence. Even in previous election rounds, protests have suddenly turned violent, which increases the security risk.

The purpose of the US Embassy’s alert is to make its citizens aware of possible security risks in advance. US officials said that such alerts are not warnings of normal circumstances, but are issued due to political instability in the country and the risk of unexpected violence in large groups.

• Stay away from large crowds and rallies.

• Keep getting updates from local media and official sources.

• Be alert to your surrounding environment.

• Do not get involved in any controversial or political activities.

This election is the first after the mass protests and violence in 2024, which forced the then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down from power. This election is taking place amidst intense conflict and controversies between political parties as the old main parties (such as Awami League) are not able to participate in these elections or their participation is disputed.