Bangladesh’s interim government has officially banned the country’s oldest political party, the Awami League, following sustained mass protests led by students and various political groups.
On Saturday (May 10) at 11 PM, the advisory council, headed by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, held an emergency meeting that resulted in the decision to outlaw the Awami League. Law Advisor Asif Nazrul briefed the media about the resolution in a late-night press conference.
He stated that a revised version of the International Crimes Tribunal Act was approved in the meeting, granting the tribunal authority to penalize political parties, their affiliated organizations, or support groups.
Under this amendment, all Awami League activities—including those on cyberspace—are banned under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the tribunal completes trials against the party and its leaders. The measure, said Nazrul, is intended to protect the country’s sovereignty, ensure the safety of July movement activists, and shield tribunal witnesses and plaintiffs.
A formal circular will be issued in the upcoming working days to implement the decision. The advisory council also resolved to finalize and publish the July Declaration within 30 working days.
The ban comes after mounting public pressure, with protests intensifying since Thursday night. Led by National Citizens’ Party (NCP) South Organizer Hasnat Abdullah, demonstrators occupied Shahbagh, marched toward the Jamuna residence of the Chief Advisor, and demanded a ban on the Awami League.
On Friday, large gatherings and fiery speeches amplified the demand, culminating in road blockades. The government initially issued a statement acknowledging the public’s concerns and revealed that discussions were underway with political parties.
The statement also cited a UN report on alleged terrorist activities by Awami League leaders and supporters and confirmed that the student wing, Chhatra League, had already been banned under existing laws.
Furthermore, the government announced plans to amend the International Crimes Tribunal Act to prosecute organizations involved in crimes against humanity. Authorities also acknowledged public outrage over former president Abdul Hamid’s overseas travel, vowing legal action against those responsible.
LND/BG
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