Dhaka, May 14 – Bangladesh’s interim government has staunchly defended its decision to ban the Awami League, branding the move as essential for safeguarding national security and sovereignty. The statement comes amid growing international concern, including from India, over the legality and implications of the ban on the country’s oldest political party.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, asserted that the ban and forthcoming elections are Bangladesh’s “internal matter” and urged foreign nations to respect the country's sovereign decisions.
“Elections are entirely our internal matter. We urge all to respect the sovereign will of our people in matters relating to elections,” Alam told the state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).
India Voices Concern, Calls for Inclusive Elections
Reacting to the development, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern over what it called the ban "without due process." Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the importance of holding “free, fair, and inclusive” elections in Bangladesh.In response, Alam criticized the Awami League’s electoral track record, accusing it of conducting “farcical elections” and “destroying democratic institutions.” He further alleged that the party’s actions over its 15-year rule “compromised sovereignty” and inflicted long-lasting damage on Bangladesh’s political fabric.
Awami League Disbanded Under Amended Anti-Terrorism Law
The government’s move followed a late-night ordinance issued by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, which revised the existing Anti-Terrorism Act. The new amendment prohibits any form of support or publicity for individuals or entities tried under the act, including on social media or at public gatherings.Subsequently, on Monday, the Awami League was officially disbanded. The interim government stated that the ban would remain until a special tribunal concludes the trial of the party and its senior leadership.
Political Upheaval and Legal Challenges
The Awami League has a storied legacy dating back to the 1949 autonomy movement, and its leadership during the 1971 Liberation War has seen its fortunes reverse dramatically. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year-long regime ended on August 5 last year following a student-led mass uprising. She later fled to India.Since then, Hasina and several senior party leaders have been facing numerous charges, including mass murder and corruption. Most of her allies have either been arrested or fled abroad.
A United Nations human rights report highlighted that around 1,400 people were killed between July 15 and August 15 last year, many reportedly victims of retaliatory actions targeting Awami League supporters or law enforcement personnel.
The interim administration has accused Hasina and her government of committing “crimes against humanity” during the violent crackdown on protestors, including allegations of mass killings and enforced disappearances.