Khulna has virtually turned into a city of processions since this morning, as BNP is set to hold its scheduled divisional rally in the afternoon. Leaders and activists of the party and BNP’s associate bodies were seen coming to the Sonali Bank premises rally venue in the city — in small processions — from adjacent areas since early morning. Though vehicle movement, except trains, practically remained halted between Khulna and the rest of the country since Friday morning, BNP activists from 10 districts reached the venue overcoming obstacles. As part of its divisional program, BNP will hold the rally in protest against price hike of fuel and daily essentials and the killing of five BNP leaders and activists during the recent movement, and demanding the unconditional release of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. The rally is scheduled to formally begin at 2pm where party’s senior leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will deliver speeches. Meanwhile, some activists of the ruling party Awami League were seen taking position at the entry points of the city. They were also seen staging a motorcycle showdown in different parts of the city. Law enforcers were seen checking people and vehicles, coming from different parts of the district, at the entry points of Khulna city. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and a number of senior leaders reached in the city and they visited the rally venue on Friday night. BNP activists started gathering at the Sonali Bank premises from Friday night. They also placed mats and pillows on KD Ghosh Road and stayed overnight. Some were seen having meals after placing mats on the road while some were seen talking in groups at city points. Also read: BNP set to defy all obstacles as supporters start gathering for Khulna rally