Thousands of ruling Awami League activists on Wednesday gathered at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram mosque in Dhaka for the ‘peace rally’ called by the party.

The activists braved rain as they poured into the meeting venue in processions carrying banners, placards and shouting pro-government slogans. Many were seen coming on packed buses and pick-up vans.

The Awami League called the rally in a show of strength against BNP which is also holding a public rally in front of its Nayapalton central office.

AL general secretary Obaidul Quader, also the road, transport and bridges minister, and other leaders of the party will address the party’s rally.

Police have been deployed in the areas as the rallies called by the two feuding parties heightened tension.

The programmes are disrupting traffic movement around the meeting venues.