[🇧🇩] Banning Awami League, Chhatra League and Jubo League

[Bilal9]

Awami League and resolving the question of its ban

In July and the first half of August this year, Bangladesh saw the most brutal killings, political violence, terror attacks and riots since the independence of the country. It was like a gory video game where people’s lives held no value. The body of a young man was hurled off an armed car, a...

en.prothomalo.com

Awami League and resolving the question of its ban
Saimum Parvez
Published: 26 Nov 2024, 14: 07

View attachment 11003

Leaders and activists of Awami League and its affiliated bodies attack the student-people’s movement. Murtafa Bin Omar, vice president of Turag thana Chhatra League, brandishes a firearm. At Azampur in Uttara of the capital city Dhaka. 4 August Prothom Alo

In July and the first half of August this year, Bangladesh saw the most brutal killings, political violence, terror attacks and riots since the independence of the country. It was like a gory video game where people’s lives held no value. The body of a young man was hurled off an armed car, a youth lay inert in the floor of a rickshaw in a vain struggle against death, a child was killed from bullets raining down from a helicopter…

Here is little likelihood that this killing and wounding of thousands could have taken place without strong and direct orders from the head of the ruling party at the time, Sheikh Hasina, and other top persons of the government. That is why it is imperative that Sheikh Hasina, her government and the political party Awami League, be placed on trial. Any discrepancies in this process or indiscriminate filing of cases would simply serve to trivialise the matter.

There prevails a debate on the future of post-Hasina Bangladesh. It was on 23 June 1949 that East Pakistan Awami Muslim League was born. At the behest of Maulana Bhashani, in 1955 the word ‘Muslim’ was dropped in the interests of a non-communal political ideology. After playing a vital role in struggle for independence, the manner in which Awami League has stood against the aspirations and the interests of the people over the past one and a half decades is not just unfortunate but calls for justice.

However, the question is, how to deal with a party as large as Awami League, which has a large support base too? How to bring about their reforms, how to effectively place them on trial and ensure justice is carried out?

If we leave out the controversial elections from 2014 to 2024 and analyse the fair and credible elections, we will see that in 1991 Awami League secured 30.8 per cent of the votes. In 1996 (June) it secured 37.44 per cent of the votes and in 2001 it won 40.13 per cent. In 2008, if we analyse the party’s votes, not as an alliance, it clinched 48.4 per cent.

It is difficult to discern how far Awami League’s public support has waned due to the fact that fair elections haven’t been held over the past 15 years, the July killings and Sheikh Hasina fleeing in the face of the mass uprising. But the behaviour and words of Awami League’s leaders and activists indicate no sign of remorse. So the predicament of millions is involved in the event that Awami League is banned. So any decision in this regard must not be taken with rashness, but with much discussion and deliberation.

In the prevailing circumstances we can think of a number of possible alternative scenarios. The first scenario would be about banning Awami League. This decision can be implemented in a short time. This can be brought about in one of any three processes – a court order, a referendum or an executive order. If an appeal is placed in court for this ban, then it must be proven whether Awami League was involved in the massacre or not, whether there was any decision at a party meeting in this regard and whether the party chief was involved. The line between the government and the party must also been taken into account.

The third scenario would be just to leave things as they are, with no banning of Awami League and with no effective trial or reforms. That is an unacceptable proposal. If Awami League returns, there will be an increase of revengeful violence in the country
If a referendum is held, the people’s decision will be known. However, it must be kept in mind that there is a big difference between an election and a referendum. If the mandate goes against banning Awami League, not only must this been accepted, but this may have a negative impact on the trial for the July killings.

If the people give their verdict in favour of banning Awami League and even if 20/30 per cent of the votes go against this motion, that too is a considerable chunk of the population. That would constitute a few million supports, 90 per cent of whom presumably were not directly involved in the crimes against humanity. This banning may criminalise them, but that may backfire.

The second scenario would be to ensure the trial of those involved in the indiscriminate killings of July and August as well as those involved in crimes against humanity over the past 15 years, but to give Awami League a chance to reform as a party. In that case, a high-powered, professional and international standard truth investigation committee can be formed and a draft list be prepared of Awami League leaders and activists, including Hasina, who were involved in crimes against humanity.

If there is justified basis to the allegations of the accused persons’ involvement in crimes against humanity, through the trial process they can be banned from taking part in politics and the election. But a legal process must be ensured so that this is not on conflict with the principle of justice – ‘innocent until proven guilty’.

Awami League can be given the chance to become active in politics again if they expel the involved persons from the party and if the party’s constitution takes a firm stand against these killings and the killers. The party can place Sheikh Hasina and her close collaborators on trial and ban them from politics and the party. The leaders and activists with comparatively less criminal involvement can seek pardon and resume party activities after going through a compulsory correctional process.

The third scenario would be just to leave things as they are, with no banning of Awami League and with no effective trial or reforms. That is an unacceptable proposal. If Awami League returns, there will be an increase of revengeful violence in the country. Also, banning the party as in the first scenario, with no long-term process, there is little likelihood of this being effective, as seen in past history.

In December 1971, five parties including Jamaat-e-Islami were banned. Later, in accordance to the constitution of 1972, all religion-based parties were banned. But Jamiyate Ulema-e-Islam was allowed to resume its programmes. After this ban, no long-term measures, no cultural-social-political initiative was taken. The leaders and the activists of the banned parties joined JSD, NAP and even Awami League. In recent times, on 31 July this year, Awami League cancelled Jamaat-e-Islami's registration. But the party has now clearly returned in an even bigger form.

The process of banning of political parties does not involve just crimes, but it involves political, social and cultural matters too. Awami League's biggest strength lies in its cultural capital. Many big names and influencers in the country's literary and cultural field are Awami League's strength. So there is very little possibility of an effective ban of the party unless there is a long-term cultural and political drive. It will be difficult to reach the aspired goal with a short-term bank on Awami League.

• Dr Saimum Parvez is a teacher of political communications at Germany's DW Academy and Bonn Rhein-Sieg University
• This column appeared in the print and online edition of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten for the English edition by Ayesha Kabir

Well the news outlet Prothom Alo is always a diehard Awami League supporter - and continues to be so. Being that there is no Media ban nowadays and dissent is allowed, they can keep harping on and whitewashing AL crimes (like here, with all the hand-wringing and whining, casting doubts on the legality of banning AL), but people will keep rejecting dailies like Prothom Alo and Daily Star, letting them die a natural death.

 

[Bilal9]

‘No place’ for Hasina’s ‘fascist’ party in Bangladesh's politics, Yunus tells FT

He says will not seek exiled leader’s extradition from India before domestic tribunal’s verdict

www.thedailystar.net

‘No place’ for Hasina’s ‘fascist’ party in Bangladesh's politics, Yunus tells FT
He says will not seek exiled leader’s extradition from India before domestic tribunal’s verdict

View attachment 10174
File photo of Muhammad Yunus/Collected

Dr Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim leader, has accused the political party of ousted authoritarian leader Sheikh Hasina of exhibiting "all the characteristics of fascism".

It has "no place" for now in the country's politics, Yunus said in an interview with the Financial Times published today.

"In the short run, definitely she has no place — the Awami League doesn't have a place — in Bangladesh," the newspaper quoted 84-year-old Nobel peace laureate as saying.

"They controlled the people, they controlled the [political] machinery, they controlled the institutions to enhance their interest," he said in the interview.

"No fascist party should be in existence in a democratic system," Yunus said.

Yunus told the UK-based Financial Times that the interim government would not immediately seek the extradition of Sheikh Hasina from India.

FT reported that Yunus said his government would seek Sheikh Hasina's return after a verdict had been reached by the International Crimes Tribunal, which issued an arrest warrant against her and 45 others earlier in October.

"She is charged with crimes against humanity . . . when the verdict comes out, we'll try to get her back through the extradition treaty" with India, he said. "I don't think we have a case to do that before a verdict is done."

Political rivals and human rights groups have accused the Awami League of rigging recent elections, carrying out extrajudicial killings, and capturing state institutions during Sheikh Hasina's more than 15-year rule, the report said.

Since her flight, Bangladeshis have been debating whether the party should be temporarily suspended from politics, required to reform, or banned entirely, FT report stated.

Yunus speculated during the interview that the Awami League might disintegrate, but stressed that its fate would not be decided by his interim administration as it was "not a political government".

Any decision on whether Awami League could participate in a future election would be decided by a "consensus" of political parties themselves, he said. "They have to decide their political space."​

It is clear that India will not hand over Hasina to Bangladesh, they are playing a game on this. I think ultimately - Hasina (and her party cohorts) will face an ICC verdict and will be forced to attend a trial at the ICC. If she refuses, she as well as the cohorts will remain marked criminals - forever on the run from country to country.

 

[Saif]

It is clear that India will not hand over Hasina to Bangladesh, they are playing a game on this. I think ultimately - Hasina (and her party cohorts) will face an ICC verdict and will be forced to attend a trial at the ICC. If she refuses, she as well as the cohorts will remain marked criminals - forever on the run from country to country.

Criminal Hasina should be hanged and Awami League should be banned for ever. No place for fascist Hasina and Awami League in new Bangladesh. Period.

 

[Saif]

Well the news outlet Prothom Alo is always a diehard Awami League supporter - and continues to be so. Being that there is no Media ban nowadays and dissent is allowed, they can keep harping on and whitewashing AL crimes (like here, with all the hand-wringing and whining, casting doubts on the legality of banning AL), but people will keep rejecting dailies like Prothom Alo and Daily Star, letting them die a natural death.

The interim government should boot out the current management of Prothom Alo and Daily Star and install new management for these dailies by an executive order.

 

[Saif]

Hefazat-e-Islam calls for ban on AL following UN report

Hefazat-e-Islam today demanded that the interim government ban the Awami League following the release of a report by the United Nations fact-finding mission.

www.thedailystar.net

Hefazat-e-Islam calls for ban on AL following UN report

Hefazat-e-Islam today demanded that the interim government ban the Awami League following the release of a report by the United Nations fact-finding mission.

Hefazat Ameer Muhibbullah Babunagari and Secretary General Sajedur Rahman made this demand in a joint statement.

They claimed that the detailed investigative report by the United Nations Human Rights Office on last year's mass uprising revealed horrific crimes against humanity committed by the "fascist" Hasina and her accomplices, supported by substantial evidence.

Under Hasina's planning and directives, her loyal forces have gone to extreme lengths of brutality, including enforced disappearances, killings, and torture, they said.


The Hefazat leaders further stated that the Awami League must be banned at the state level for its involvement in the Pilkhana massacre, enforced disappearances, killings, and the May 5 and 24 massacres.

"Otherwise, Awami fascism will not allow the government and people of this country to live in peace for even a moment," the statement quoted them as saying.

They also accused the Awami League of actively spreading division and discord among the parties supporting the mass uprising.


The Hefazat leaders also asserted that India continues to behave like an enemy state, unable to accept the new Bangladesh that emerged after Hasina's fall. Instead, under India's shelter, Hasina is being given the opportunity to orchestrate one conspiracy after another. Therefore, they called for the swift trial of Hasina for enforced disappearances and massacres.

"At the same time, her identified loyalists within various forces must also be brought to justice quickly," the statement concluded.​

 

[Saif]

AL, allies should be banned for aiding Hasina

Sarjis Alam, chief organiser of Jatiya Nagorik Committee, yesterday said if Sheikh Hasina was the mastermind behind the July killings, then the Awami League and its associate bodies should also be banned for aiding her in committing the crimes.

www.thedailystar.net

AL, allies should be banned for aiding Hasina

Sarjis Alam, chief organiser of Jatiya Nagorik Committee, yesterday said if Sheikh Hasina was the mastermind behind the July killings, then the Awami League and its associate bodies should also be banned for aiding her in committing the crimes.

He said there is a difference between AL as a party, Hasina as an individual, and the voters.

"We cannot hold voters accountable for the crimes of the party. However, the registration of the Awami League as a political party must be completely revoked," he said while speaking to journalists after a dialogue hosted by the Jatiya Nagorik Committee at the BIISS auditorium.

He said there might be 25 to 30 percent of people in the country who were "silent" voters of Awami League.

"Among them, those involved in wrongdoing, abuse of power, murder, enforced disappearances, or similar crimes should be held accountable. They should not have the right to engage in politics in Bangladesh," he added.

Regarding those voters who were not involved in any wrongdoing, he said their fate should be decided by the people, especially if they seek forgiveness for the crimes committed by Hasina and AL.

Sarjis said they expect to announce their new party within the next week. Regarding AL's hartal (strike) programme, Sarjis said, "It is irrelevant to discuss the strike of a party that no longer exists."​

 

[Saif]

AL must be eradicated, not just banned

Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain yesterday said the Awami League must be eradicated politically and ideologically from Bangladesh.

www.thedailystar.net

AL must be eradicated, not just banned
Says Adviser Asif Mahmud

Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan. File photo

Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain yesterday said the Awami League must be eradicated politically and ideologically from Bangladesh.

He said this must be done through a ban following legal and social processes, such as a truth commission or precedents from other countries.

"The Awami League should not only be banned but also politically eradicated from Bangladesh. This is my personal stance. Now, discussion may take place on how it will be implemented. There are precedents of this in various countries," he wrote in a Facebook post yesterday.

"I have seen my brothers martyred by their [AL men] firing before my eyes. I have been a victim of disappearance; I have seen death up close. It is impossible to even think of the political rehabilitation of Awami League," Asif stated.
He also clarified the statement he made yesterday on allowing AL men to participate in polls.

"As I did not elaborate... my statement may not have been conveyed clearly. Some media outlets have also presented my statement differently. Here [in the statement], it was not said to allow Awami League to participate in elections. That question is irrelevant before a trial," he said.

The adviser also emphasised the need for finding a permanent solution to this issue.

"If we don't do so, the Awami League will find a way to return to power today or tomorrow. The Awami League had banned Jamaat-e-Islami, but did that stop Jamaat's politics?"

Asif called for an "integrated process" to ensure AL's eradication, noting that the party still has a large number of beneficiaries.

He also said many who had some connection or other with AL ask why they should apologise if they have done nothing wrong. "Of course, they must apologise for their involvement with Awami League 'as a fascist enabler or a beneficiary' in any given form. This process must be completed transparently and in phases."​

 

[Saif]

'No plan to ban Awami League'

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said that the interim government has no plans to ban the Awami League, but individuals within its leadership accused of crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will be tried in Bangladeshi courts.

www.thedailystar.net

'No plan to ban Awami League'
Yunus tells Crisis Group; 'regime leaders to face trial here'

File photo: STAR

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said that the interim government has no plans to ban the Awami League, but individuals within its leadership accused of crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will be tried in Bangladeshi courts.

He said the government has not ruled out referring AL leaders to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, following a UN fact-finding mission that reported potential crimes during the July uprising. "It is very much on the table."

Speaking with a delegation from the International Crisis Group led by its President Comfort Ero at the state guesthouse Jamuna yesterday, the chief adviser said the interim government has vowed to hold elections on schedule, and not delay the vote for any demands.

He also confirmed that the government has set two possible timelines for the elections. He assured the group the dates would not change, said a press release from the chief adviser's press wing.

Yunus explained that if political parties seek a limited number of reforms prior to polls, then the elections will be held in December. If a larger reform package is desired, then elections will take place by June next year.

"We have no reason to change the election dates," he added, emphasising that the upcoming elections will be free and fair.

He also shared that the Consensus Building Commission began talks with political parties yesterday. He said there are plans to finalise and sign the July Charter, which will guide the government's policies.

The International Crisis Group officials praised the arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah this week, calling it a sign of the government's commitment to peace and stability in the refugee camps.

They also stressed the need for increased engagement with the Arakan Army, which controls much of Rakhine state in Myanmar. Prof Yunus noted that Dhaka is working to mobilise aid for Rohingya refugees and hopes the upcoming special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis will draw global attention to the issue.

Ero expressed her group's support for Bangladesh in countering misinformation targeting the country and its government.

Prof Yunus concluded by expressing Bangladesh's desire for strong relations with India, though he lamented that much of the misinformation campaign against Bangladesh has originated from Indian media.​

 

[Saif]

https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/376859/hasnat%E2%80%99s-midnight-statement-fuels-fresh-demands-to

Hasnat’s post fuels fresh demands for Awami League ban
'Today, if I once again have your support and find you standing by my side on the streets, we will be able to resist this Indian conspiracy to rehabilitate the Awami League,' says Hasnat Abdullah

Hasnat Abdullah. Photo: Collected

Publish : 21 Mar 2025, 11:12 AMUpdate : 21 Mar 2025, 11:12 AM

In a bombshell Facebook post late on Thursday night that instantly went viral, Hasnat Abdullah, one of the key leaders of the uprising that overthrew Sheikh Hasina and now the chief organiser (South) of the newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP), alleged that under India's guidance, a plot is being hatched to rehabilitate the ousted Awami League.

In the post, Hasnat revealed details of a key meeting held at the Cantonment on March 11, between himself and two others from NCP with presumably military leadership, where a proposal was put forward to them to bring back the AL to mainstream politics.

Hasnat wrote regarding it: "On 11 March, at 2:30pm, this plan was presented to me and two others at the Cantonment. It was proposed that in exchange for negotiated seat sharing (at the next election), we should accept this offer. We were told that the same proposal was put forward to multiple political parties and subject to certain conditions, they had agreed to the rehabilitation of the Awami League. It was suggested that having multiple opposition parties alongside a weak Awami League would be better than just one opposition party. As a result, over the past two days, you will notice that many politicians in the media have been speaking in favour of the Awami League."

He said the move was being orchestrated by India and the plan was to have ex-MP Saber Hossain Chowdhury, ex-speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury and ex-mayor of Dhaka South Fazle Noor Taposh as the faces of what would amount to a "Refined Awami League".

Hasnat continue: "We were further told that from April-May onwards, this 'Refined Awami League,' would start admitting to the crimes of the Sheikh family, reject Hasina and promise to reestablish the Awami League of Bangabandhu in front of the public."

Hasnat said that they immediately rejected the proposal and informed their interlocutors that instead of rehabilitating the Awami League, they should be working towards bringing them to justice.

"In response, we were told that if we object to the return of the Awami League, we would be responsible for the crisis it creates in the country and that 'Awami League must come back' act," he added.

Hasnat further wrote' "At one stage of the discussion, I asked, 'How can you forgive a party that has not yet apologised or confessed to its crimes?' Angrily, the other side responded, 'You people know nothing. You lack wisdom and experience. We have been in this service for at least forty years, longer than you’ve been alive. Moreover, without the Awami League, there can be no 'inclusive' election.'"

Hasnat said they didn’t compromise, instead telling the other party: "There can be no inclusivity with the Awami League. If the Awami League is to return, it will be over our dead bodies. If an attempt is made to bring back the Awami League, you will be responsible for the crisis that will arise."

The meeting then wrapped up with the issue left unresolved.

Hasnat went on to write that during the July-August movement last year, they also received various proposals but instead of listening to any of them, they put their faith in the people, and with their support, brought about the downfall of Awami League.

He said that resisting any pressure from the Cantonment, they would like to do so again today, on the question of banning Awami League, on which he said there could be no compromise.

"Today, if I again have your support, if I find you by my side on the streets, we will once again be able to reject this Indian conspiracy of rehabilitating the Awami League," he wrote.

Hasnat’s post sparked an immediate reaction, as a group of Dhaka University students held a march on the campus in the early hours of Friday, demanding the ban of Awami League.

They also announced to reconvene in front of the Raju Sculpture on Friday afternoon to press home their demand.

Meanwhile Jamaat-e-Islami Chief Dr ShafIqur Rahman, in an early morning post on Friday on his verified Facebook page, seemed to add his voice to Hasnat’s in this regard for the first time, with a statement titled “The public will not accept the rehabilitation of the Awami League.”

Without calling directly for the Awami League to be banned, he emphasised bringing them to justice as the number one priority in front of the nation right now.

He urged all sides to remain united in this goal.​

 

[Saif]

DU students protest at midnight to demand ban on Awami League

A group of students have staged a late-night protest march at Dhaka University to demand the withdrawal of the chief advisor's statement on banning the Awami League, in addition to reiterating their previous demand to ban the ousted political party. They have also called a protest rally at 3pm on

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

DU students protest at midnight to demand ban on Awami League
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Mar 21, 2025 12:13
Updated :
Mar 21, 2025 12:13

A group of students have staged a late-night protest march at Dhaka University to demand the withdrawal of the chief advisor's statement on banning the Awami League, in addition to reiterating their previous demand to ban the ousted political party.

They have also called a protest rally at 3pm on Friday at the base of the university’s Raju Memorial Sculpture to press for the same demand.

Around 1:30am on Thursday, a group of students took out a procession from the university’s residential hall area, reports bdnews24.com.

The procession circled the courtyard in front of the Vice Chancellor's Office and ended at the base of the Raju sculpture. There, the protesters lit fires and staged a demonstration before holding a brief rally.

On Thursday, during a discussion at the state guesthouse Jamuna with a delegation led by Comfort Ero, the president and CEO of the International Crisis Group, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus said that the interim government has no plans to ban the Awami League.

However, he mentioned that leaders of the party who are accused of murder and crimes against humanity would face trials in court.

AB Jobayer, a student of the Islamic Studies Department, said at the protest rally: “We have confidence in the chief advisor. However, various individuals around him, including different ‘agencies,’ are creating obstacles for him.”

“The Awami League must be banned immediately for its role in genocide. Until the decision to ban the Awami League is finalised, the students and the people will remain on the streets. We will not betray the blood of the martyrs,” he declared.

“A referendum should be organised regarding the ban on the Awami League. The people of the country do not want the Awami League to return. The people of Bangladesh are with you (the chief advisor).”

Addressing the chief advisor, he said: “Withdraw your statement immediately. There will be no elections until Awami League is banned.”

Mosaddek Ali Ibn Mohammad, a student of the Department of Bangla, said at the rally: "Different political parties are rehabilitating the Awami League using different methods. The people decided to ban the Awami League on Aug 5.”

“It is either the Awami League or the student community. As long as there is a single drop of blood in our veins, we will not allow the Awami League to continue in politics,” he declared.

He also called on students from schools, colleges, and universities to take to the streets in solidarity with their demands.​

 

[Saif]

Protests led by NCP and student leaders at multiple public universities, including DU, demand AL ban

The protest comes after Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus yesterday (20 March) told the International Crisis Group that the interim government has no plan to ban the AL

www.tbsnews.net

Protests led by NCP and student leaders at multiple public universities, including DU, demand AL ban

The protest comes after Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus yesterday (20 March) told the International Crisis Group that the interim government has no plan to ban the AL.

The Inqilab Manch brought out a protest procession at Dhaka University on 21 March 2025. Photo: Focus Bangla

Protests, led by leaders of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and various student organisations, erupted across the country demanding the ban of Awami League today (21 March).

Besides, they strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza.

The development comes after Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus yesterday (20 March) told the International Crisis Group that the interim government has no plan to ban the AL.

The CA, however, said AL leaders accused of crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will be tried in Bangladeshi courts and could be referred to the International Criminal Court.

Later, in a Facebook post last night, NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah alleged that a plan is being hatched by India "to bring back Refined Awami League" last night.

He claimed that he and two others were presented with a plan to rehabilitate the ousted Awami League party during a meeting at the Cantonment on 11 March.

If we want to hold elections with the Awami League, there will be a flood of blood in Bangladesh. I swear by the blood of more than 2,000 martyrs and thousands of injured, we will not let the Awami League rehabilitate as long as we have a single drop of blood in our bodies. Awami League means murderers---Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman bin Hadi.

Amid the developments, students from several universities brought out protests last night demanding a ban on the AL.

Later, after the Jumma prayer today (21 March), students and the public, led by leaders of NCP, SAD and other student organisations, from Dhaka University (DU), Jahangirnagar University (JU), Rajshahi University (RU) and Islamic University (IU) held protests in their respective campuses.

DU

At Dhaka University, the Inqilab Manch, a cultural organisation formed by students-public who partook in the July-August uprising, and the Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad, a new organisation formed by leaders of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD), brought out protest processions in the afternoon.

The protesters demanded a ban on the AL and justice for the July-August uprising killings.

They also demanded the withdrawal of the statement of Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus where he said the government does not have any plan to ban the AL.

They started the protest procession from the Central Mosque of Dhaka University after Friday prayers. In addition, students will hold a protest procession from Dhaka University's Halpara at 3 pm with the same demand.

The procession of Inquilab Manch from the Central Mosque passed through the university's Madhur Canteen, Surja Sen Hall, and VC Square and ended near the Raju Memorial Sculpture. On the other hand, the procession of the Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad went towards the Central Mosque via Madhur Canteen, Halpara and the Raju Memorial Sculpture.

The students participating in the programmes chanted various slogans demanding the ban of the Awami League. Along with this, they were seen raising various slogans in protest against the Israeli attack in violation of the ceasefire agreement in Palestine.

They were seen raising slogans like 'We want the trial of Awami League', 'Let's light a fire together on the Awami League's chairs, 'Catch each league, throw them in jail one by one', 'Yunus Saheb's statement should be withdrawn', 'We want justice for genocide', 'We must ban Awami League immediately', 'Break and crush the venomous fangs of Awami League', 'The call of martyrs is being given, Awami League should be destroyed' etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman bin Hadi said, "We have to stand against Israel, and India -the Israel of [Southeast] Asia."

He said, 'If we want to hold elections with the Awami League, there will be a flood of blood in Bangladesh. I swear by the blood of more than 2,000 martyrs and thousands of injured, we will not let the Awami League rehabilitate as long as we have a single drop of blood in our bodies. Awami League means murderers.'

Hadi said, 'If we allow the Awami League to hold elections, the Awami League will be in power for two and a half to three years. Then, with the help of India, the Awami League will conspire to seize power. Then, it will again unleash hellish violence in the country."

Earlier, at 1:30am on Thursday, students held a protest march demanding the withdrawal of the chief advisor's statement that the govt has no plan to ban AL.

JU

At JU, students brought out protests demanding the ban on the former ruling party, led by ousted premier Sheikh Hasina at around 2:00pm.

Students brought out protests at the Jahangirnagar University premises on 21 March 2025. Photo: TBS

They criticised Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus' yesterday's comment to the International Crisis Group, where he said that the interim government does not plan to ban the Awami League.

During the protest at JU, students were heard chanting various slogans, including, "No place of AL in our Sonar Bangla', 'AL must be banned immediately', 'Be careful Hasina's friends', 'General Walker, be careful," and "Ban Ban, Murderer League".

In a brief rally, Touhid Mohammad Siam, a student of the International Relations Department and joint member secretary of the NCP, said, "Nothing else is needed to ban the fascist party that has committed multiple genocides in this country. On 5 August, the students of Bangladesh rejected the Awami League by sending Sheikh Hasina away. I want to tell the interim govt, that if you try to bring back the Awami League, you have seen in '24 how dangerous the students can be."

Addressing the army, he said, "If you want to follow the prescription of any agency outside Dhaka, we will not leave you alone."

The student leader also alleged that the army was involved in "shooting students in Muhammadpur on 19 July and 3 August 2024" during the uprising.

"We have not forgotten how Waker Sahed gave Sheikh Hasina a safe exit on 5 August. We will judge everything. If you create any obstacles in the matter of banning the Awami League, if you intimidate the student leaders, then we will send you on the same path that your relatives have taken. The Awami League cannot be allowed to conduct any more election or political activities in Bengal," he said.

JU Shibir's General Secretary Mostafizur Rahman, said, "Allowing Awami League to continue doing politics in this country means disloyalty to the blood of martyrs."

"We want to make it very clear that Awami League politics will not continue in Bangladesh as long as there is a drop of blood in our body," he added.

Addressing the chief adviser, he said, "This country will not run on any prescription from Kachukhet, Moghbazar, Paltan, Washington or Delhi. You have not been placed on the chair to run this country on [General] Waker's prescription. We will not leave the streets until Awami League is banned."

Addressing Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, JU branch convener of Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad Arifuzzaman Ujjal said, "The throne that Hasina had built in 16 years was destroyed by the people of the country in just 36 days. If you try to rehabilitate the Awami League by going against the verdict of the people, we will be forced to go against you."

Addressing political parties, student Abdur Rashid Jitu said, "The students will decide whether Awami League politics will continue in this country or not. No political party will take this decision… Whoever tries to bring Awami League back, then our war will be against that person, that political party.

RU

At RU, a crowd of students and the public brought out a procession demanding the ban of AL and justice for the July uprising massacre after the Jummah prayer.

A crowd of students and the public brought out a procession after the Jummah prayer in Rajshahi on 21 March 2025. Photo: TBS

They brought out a procession from the Zoha Square, which ended at Talaimari after making rounds through the main gate along the Dhaka-Rajshahi highway.

At the end of the rally, speakers at a short rally.

Speaking at the occasion, Salauddin Ammar, former SAD coordinator of Rajshahi University, said, "Awami League will not be allowed to do politics on the grounds of Bangla. If Awami League wants to return here, it will have to return the lives of more than 2,000 martyred brothers, the hands and feet of 22,000 injured and crippled people, the eyes of the blind, and the limbs of the maimed brothers and sisters."

"The lives of all the people who were killed and disappeared during the fascist Awami League regime in the last 15 years must be returned. Then the people of this country will decide whether the Awami League will do politics in Bangladesh or not," he added.

He also said, "No one who tries to rehabilitate AL will be spared, be it the army's cantonment or any big army official, or any friend of the Awami League. We have not forgotten July, if we have to go down like July again, then we will go down on the Awami League issue, regardless of party affiliation."

IU

At IU, students, led by SAD, have been holding a sit-in programme since early dawn demanding AL's ban following allegations of AL's rehabilitations brought by Hasnat Abdullah in a Facebook post last night.

The sit-in programme was started under the leadership of SM Sweet, coordinator of the IU branch of SAD. SAD co-coordinators Nahid Hasan, Tanvir Mondal, Yashirul Kabir, Ismail Rahat, other members of the coordinating council and students were present at the time.

Speaking at the protest programme, one of the protesters said "As a result of the long 36-day-long movement, we have got a new Bangladesh. The first task of the government that came to power through the blood sacrifices of the dead and the cries of the wounded was to prosecute the Awami fascists —but the government did not do so.

"We condemn those who are trying to rehabilitate Awami fascism and say that there can be no 'inclusive' election without the Awami League."

Another student said, "The student-public will not accept any rehabilitation of the Awami League. If such a thing happens, we will mount a tough movement. We have been on the streets, are, and will be—we want the Awami League completely banned and we must do so."

Chattogram

Leaders of NCP and the Bangladesh Gonotantrik Chhatra Sangsad in Chattogram today brought out a procession reiterating their demand for the Awami League to be officially banned and its leaders to be brought to justice.

The protest rally was held at the New Market Intersection in the port city.

They warned against any attempt to rehabilitate the AL under foreign influence, particularly from India.

Protesters also urged the government to take a strong stand against Israeli aggression in Gaza.

Speaking at the rally, NCP Organiser (Northern Region) Russel Ahmed expressed frustration over the government's inaction, stating, "It has been six to seven months, yet the AL has not been officially banned.

"We will move forward with a democratic election for the future of Bangladesh, but if anyone tries to rehabilitate the AL, they should know that the path to ultimate liberation is through sacrifice. If necessary, more people will become martyrs like Abu Sayeed, but we will never allow the AL to be reinstated," he added.

He also criticised the role of the Bangladesh Army.

Meanwhile, Chhatra Sangsad Joint Convener Khan Talat Mahmud, reinforced that the AL's ban had already taken place on 5 August, stating, "Now, only the official declaration remains. If the AL is rehabilitated, the July movement will rise again.

"India's prescriptions will not work in Bangladesh. Every political party must make its stance on the AL clear," he added.​

 

[Saif]

GM Quader opposes banning Awami League

Accuses the current interim government of encouraging political malpractice and corruption

www.thedailystar.net

GM Quader opposes banning Awami League

Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader has opposed the demand to ban the Awami League, saying that the individuals within the party may be corrupt, but the party itself should not be held responsible.

"We are not in favour of banning the Awami League. A party is like a vehicle -- its driver may be bad, but that does not mean the vehicle itself is bad," Quader said while speaking to journalists at his residence in Rangpur's Senpara area today.

Quader strongly criticised the former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of authoritarian rule.

"We have witnessed Hasina's fascism. She held elections forcefully by excluding half of the population. She compelled some to participate while forcibly sidelining others. A credible election cannot be held by excluding a significant portion of the population.

"This will not bring stability to the country but will push it towards conflict and disaster," he warned.

He alleged that a corruption case was filed against him as a retaliation for his criticism of the government. "If you cannot govern, let someone else take responsibility. Since I pointed out the government's failures, they considered me a threat and filed a corruption case against me," Quader said.

The Jatiya Party chairman defended his tenure as a minister, stating that despite thorough scrutiny, no corruption was found during his service in the commerce and aviation ministries.

"After I did not participate in the 2014 election, Hasina deployed all agencies to find corruption against me. They found nothing. But now, they claim my corruption involves taking Tk 2,000–5,000 for nominations and positions. This is their way of silencing me," he asserted.

Quader accused the current interim government of encouraging political malpractice and corruption.

"Some close associates of the interim government are promoting acts disguised as politics but are actually plundering. The police force has been demoralised and rendered ineffective. The Anti-Corruption Commission and the judiciary are being misused. Several institutions have been destroyed, and rebuilding them will not be easy," he cautioned.

Jatiya Party leaders, including Presidium Member SM Yasir, Metropolitan Senior Vice-President Lokman Hossain, Vice-President Zahidul Islam, and District Chhatra Samaj convener Ariful Islam, were present at the time.​

 

[Saif]

আওয়ামী লীগ বিদেশ থেকে আসা ‘প্রতিস্থাপিত শক্তি’: মাহফুজ আলম

আওয়ামী লীগ কোনো দেশীয় শক্তি নয়, বরং এটি মূলত বিদেশ থেকে আসা একটি ‘প্রতিস্থাপিত শক্তি’ বলে মন্তব্য করেছেন তথ্য ও সম্প্রচার উপদেষ্টা মাহফুজ আলম।

bangla.thedailystar.net

আওয়ামী লীগ বিদেশ থেকে আসা ‘প্রতিস্থাপিত শক্তি’: মাহফুজ আলম

ছবি: বাসস

আওয়ামী লীগ কোনো দেশীয় শক্তি নয়, বরং এটি মূলত বিদেশ থেকে আসা একটি 'প্রতিস্থাপিত শক্তি' বলে মন্তব্য করেছেন তথ্য ও সম্প্রচার উপদেষ্টা মাহফুজ আলম।

তিনি বলেন, 'আওয়ামী লীগ কোনো দেশীয় শক্তি নয়...বরং এটি মূলত বিদেশ থেকে সংগৃহীত একটি শক্তি। এর সুতা দিল্লিতে ধরা হয়, আর ঘুড়ি ওড়ে বাংলাদেশে। এই ঘুড়ি আর বাংলাদেশে উড়তে দেওয়া হবে না।"

ছাত্র-নেতৃত্বাধীন গণঅভ্যুত্থানের শহীদ ও আহতদের স্মরণে শুক্রবার রাজধানীর নোফেল সোসাইটি আয়োজিত আলোচনা ও ইফতার অনুষ্ঠানে তিনি এ কথা বলেন।

মাহফুজ বলেন, 'যখনই আওয়ামী লীগ সুযোগ পাবে, তখন অবশ্যই তা দেশের সাধারণ মানুষের আকাঙ্ক্ষার বিরুদ্ধে যাবে।'

তিনি বলেন, 'আমরা আওয়ামী ফ্যাসিবাদের বিরুদ্ধে জয় লাভ করেছি। আমাদের মনে রাখতে হবে যে, আমরা যে জয় অর্জন করেছি, তা রাজনৈতিক ও ঐক্যবদ্ধ লড়াইয়ের মাধ্যমে অর্জিত হয়েছে। যদি আমরা ঐক্য বজায় না রাখি এবং রাজনৈতিকভাবে লড়াই চালিয়ে না যাই, তাহলে আওয়ামী লীগ আবার ফিরে আসবে।'

নির্বাচন সম্পর্কে মন্তব্য করতে গিয়ে মাহফুজ বলেন, নির্বাচন নির্ধারিত সময়েই ডিসেম্বরে অনুষ্ঠিত হবে এবং সবাইকে প্রস্তুতি নেওয়ার আহ্বান জানান।

মাহফুজ বলেন, 'প্রধান উপদেষ্টা মুহাম্মদ ইউনূস বলেছেন যে, নির্বাচন যথা সময়ে অনুষ্ঠিত হবে। এটি এই বছরের শেষের দিকে, ডিসেম্বরে হওয়ার কথা রয়েছে। ইতোমধ্যেই একটি সময়সীমা নির্ধারণ করা হয়েছে এবং সেই সময়সীমার মধ্যেই নির্বাচন অনুষ্ঠিত হবে। সবারই এর জন্য প্রস্তুতি শুরু করা উচিত।'

তিনি আশা প্রকাশ করেন যে, রাজনৈতিক দলগুলো যদি দায়িত্বশীলভাবে কাজ করে, নাশকতা বন্ধ করে এবং রাষ্ট্রীয় সংস্থাগুলো যথাযথভাবে সহযোগিতা করে, তাহলে সঠিক সময়ে নির্বাচন অনুষ্ঠিত হবে।​

 

[Saif]

আওয়ামী লীগকে রাজনীতিতে ফেরানোর যেকোনো প্রচেষ্টা এনসিপি প্রতিহত করবে: নাহিদ ইসলাম

বিচার, অনুশোচনা, পাপমোচন ছাড়া আওয়ামী লীগের পক্ষে যেকোনো তৎপরতা ফ্যাসিস্ট পুনর্বাসনের শামিল বলে মন্তব্য করেছেন জাতীয় নাগরিক পার্টির (এনসিপি) আহ্বায়ক নাহিদ ইসলাম।

bangla.thedailystar.net

আওয়ামী লীগকে রাজনীতিতে ফেরানোর যেকোনো প্রচেষ্টা এনসিপি প্রতিহত করবে: নাহিদ ইসলাম

সংবাদ সম্মেলনে কথা বলেন নাহিদ ইসলাম। ছবি: সংগৃহীত

বিচার, অনুশোচনা, পাপমোচন ছাড়া আওয়ামী লীগের পক্ষে যেকোনো তৎপরতা ফ্যাসিস্ট পুনর্বাসনের শামিল বলে মন্তব্য করেছেন জাতীয় নাগরিক পার্টির (এনসিপি) আহ্বায়ক নাহিদ ইসলাম।

আজ শুক্রবার সন্ধ্যায় রাজধানীর রূপায়ন টাওয়ারে দলটির এক সংবাদ সম্মেলনে তিনি এ কথা বলেন।

লিখিত বক্তব্যে নাহিদ ইসলাম বলেন, 'আমরা অত্যন্ত উদ্বেগ ও ক্ষোভের সাথে লক্ষ্য করছি যে ছাত্র-নাগরিক অভ্যুত্থানের সাত মাস অতিবাহিত হলেও গণহত্যাকারী শেখ হাসিনাসহ আওয়ামী লীগের খুনিদের বিচারে দৃশ্যমান কোনো অগ্রগতি হয়নি। সম্প্রতি জাতিসংঘের মানবাধিকার বিষয়ক কমিশনের প্রতিবেদনে সুস্পষ্টভাবে বলা হয়েছে, জুলাই মাসে বাংলাদেশে সংঘটিত অপরাধ আন্তর্জাতিক অপরাধের শামিল।'

তিনি বলেন, 'আওয়ামী লীগের মানবতাবিরোধী অপরাধের এত সুস্পষ্ট আন্তর্জাতিক বক্তব্য থাকার পরেও বিচারিক প্রক্রিয়ার ধীরগতি অত্যন্ত নিন্দনীয়। জাতীয় নাগরিক পার্টি এনসিপি অবিলম্বে জুলাই গণহত্যাসহ বিগত ফ্যাসিবাদী রেজিমে সংঘটিত গুম ও বিচারবহির্ভূত হত্যাকাণ্ডের বিচারে দৃশ্যমান অগ্রগতি দেখতে চায়।'

আওয়ামী লীগ নিষিদ্ধের পরিকল্পনা অন্তর্বর্তী সরকারের নেই—প্রধান উপদেষ্টার এমন বক্তব্যের নিন্দা জানিয়ে নাহিদ ইসলাম বলেন, 'আওয়ামী লীগ কর্তৃক সংগঠিত পিলখানা হত্যাকাণ্ড, শাপলা হত্যাকাণ্ড, আগ্রাসনবিরোধী আন্দোলনে হত্যাকাণ্ড, গুম, ক্রসফায়ার, ভোট ডাকাতিসহ জুলাই হত্যাকাণ্ডের বিচার প্রশ্নে কার্যকর অগ্রগতি দৃশ্যমান হওয়ার আগে রাষ্ট্রের দায়িত্বশীল পথ থেকে এ ধরনের বক্তব্য অনাকাঙ্ক্ষিত।'

'এনসিপি মনে করে বিচারিক কার্যক্রমের পরিণতি দৃশ্যমান হতে হবে। আত্মপ্রকাশের পর থেকে আমরা দ্ব্যর্থহীনভাবে বলেছি অপরাধের বিচার, দায়স্বীকার, অনুশোচনা, পাপমোচন ছাড়া আওয়ামী লীগের দল হিসেবে ক্রিয়াশীল থাকার পক্ষে যেকোন ধরনের তৎপরতা ফ্যাসিস্টদের পুনর্বাসনের শামিল,' যোগ করেন তিনি।

নাহিদ আরও বলেন, 'এনসিপি জুলাই গণহত্যাসহ বিগত ফ্যাসিবাদী রেজিমে সংঘটিত অপরাপর গণহত্যা ও মানবতাবিরোধী অপরাধের বিচারের নিশ্চয়তা চায়। বিচার চলাকালে আওয়ামী লীগের নিবন্ধন বাতিল করতে হবে এবং এই মাফিয়া গোষ্ঠীর রাজনীতিতে ফেরানোর যেকোনো প্রচেষ্টাকে এনসিপি প্রতিহত করার অঙ্গীকার ব্যক্ত করছে।'

'আওয়ামী লীগ কোনো গণতান্ত্রিক ও রাজনৈতিক দল নয়, বরং এটি একটি ফ্যাসিবাদী দল' এমন মন্তব্য করে নাহিদ বলেন, 'নির্বাচনে ভোটের মাধ্যমে আওয়ামী লীগের পরাজয় ঘটেনি। দল হিসেবে আওয়ামী লীগ সাংগঠনিক সিদ্ধান্তের মাধ্যমে বাংলাদেশে গণহত্যা চালিয়েছে। যার ফলশ্রুতিতে বাংলাদেশের ইতিহাসে নজিরবিহীন ছাত্র-জনতার অভ্যুত্থানের মাধ্যমে আওয়ামী লীগ ফ্যাসিবাদী রেজিম বাংলাদেশ থেকে উৎখাত হয়েছে।'

তিনি বলেন, 'আওয়ামী লীগ এই মুহূর্তে গণতান্ত্রিক ফ্রেমওয়ার্কের বাইরে অবস্থান করছে। বিচার অনিষ্পন্ন রেখে আওয়ামী লীগকে নির্বাচনে অংশগ্রহণ করতে দেওয়ার যেকোনো ধরনের আলোচনা ও প্রস্তাব এনসিপি দৃঢ়তার সঙ্গে প্রত্যাখ্যান করে। আওয়ামী মতাদর্শ দল এবং মার্কার বিরুদ্ধে বাংলাদেশের জনগণ ৩৬শে জুলাই চূড়ান্ত সিদ্ধান্ত জানিয়ে দিয়েছে। ফলে দল ও মতাদর্শ হিসেবে আওয়ামী লীগ বাংলাদেশে রাজনীতি করার সকল অধিকার হারিয়েছে।'

'গণহত্যা ও মানবতাবিরোধী অপরাধের দায়ে আওয়ামী লীগের বিচার চলাকালে আওয়ামী লীগ এবং ফ্যাসিবাদের সহযোগী সব ব্যক্তি ও সংগঠনের রাজনৈতিক কার্যক্রমকে নিষিদ্ধ ঘোষণা করতে হবে,' বলেন তিনি।

নাহিদ আরও বলেন, 'জাতীয় নাগরিক পার্টি এনসিপি রাজনৈতিক ঐকমত্যের ভিত্তিতে ঘোষিত জুলাই সনদের মাধ্যমে আওয়ামী লীগের ব্যাপারে ফ্যাসিবাদবিরোধী সব রাজনৈতিক দল ও পক্ষকে ঐক্যবদ্ধভাবে সিদ্ধান্ত নেওয়ার আহ্বান জানায়।'

এক প্রশ্নের জবাবে নাহিদ বলেন, 'এই মুহূর্তে বাংলাদেশের সবচেয়ে গুরুত্বপূর্ণ কনসার্নের জায়গা আওয়ামী লীগ। ফলে আওয়ামী লীগের বিচার হওয়া এবং নিবন্ধন বাতিলসহ তাদের রাজনৈতিক ও সাংগঠনিকভাবে কার্যক্রম থেকে বিরত রাখার বিষয়ে সরকার ও ফ্যাসিবাদবিরোধী রাজনৈতিক পক্ষগুলোকে আমরা একত্রিত হওয়ার আহ্বান জানাচ্ছি।'

'দ্বিতীয়ত আমরা মনে করি যে, নির্বাচন বা একটি রাজনৈতিক দল কার্যক্রম করতে পারবে কি পারবে না, এটি সম্পূর্ণই একটি রাজনৈতিক সিদ্ধান্ত এবং এই সিদ্ধান্ত নেওয়ার এখতিয়ার শুধু বিদ্যমান রাজনৈতিক দলগুলোর ও জনগণের। সেখানে সেনাবাহিনী কিংবা রাষ্ট্রীয় এমন কোনো প্রতিষ্ঠানের এ বিষয়ে কোনো ধরনের মন্তব্য, পরিকল্পনা বা সিদ্ধান্ত, প্রস্তাবনা দেওয়ার কোনো এখতিয়ার নেই,' যোগ করেন তিনি।

নাহিদ ইসলাম বলেন, 'অন্তর্বর্তী সরকারের প্রধান উপদেষ্টা টাইমফ্রেম দিয়েছেন ডিসেম্বর। ডিসেম্বরকে প্রাধান্য দেওয়া হচ্ছে এবং ডিসেম্বর থেকে জুন পর্যন্ত একটা টাইমফ্রেম আমাদের বেঁধে দিয়েছেন। আমরা সেটাকে সমর্থন করছি। কিন্তু আমরা বলছি এই সময়ের মধ্যেই বিচার ও সংস্কারসহ যে আমরা গণপরিষদের দাবি জানিয়েছি, সেটা এই সময়ের মধ্যেই করা সম্ভব। ফলে নির্বাচনে যাওয়ার আগে যেন আমরা এই বিষয়গুলো সম্পন্ন করে নির্বাচনের দিকে যাই, আমরা মনে করি যদি রাজনৈতিক ঐকমত্য ও সদিচ্ছা থাকে, তাহলে এই সময়ের মধ্যেই এই ধাপগুলো সম্পন্ন সম্ভব। এই ধাপগুলো সম্পন্ন ছাড়া নির্বাচনের দিকে গেলে বাংলাদেশের আসলে কোনো গুণগত পরিবর্তন হবে না।'​

 

[Saif]

NCP condemns chief adviser’s statement on Awami League

The party expressed determination to resist any attempt by the ‘mafia group’ to get rehabilitated in politics.

en.prothomalo.com

NCP condemns chief adviser’s statement on Awami League
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 21 Mar 2025, 23: 00

NCP convener Nahid Islam speaks at a press briefing in DHaka on 21 March, 2025.Prothom Alo

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has condemned the recent statement by the chief adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, that his government has no plan to ban Awami League.

“Recently, the interim government’s chief adviser commented that the government has no plan to outlaw Awami League. We condemn this statement,” said NCP convener Nahid Islam at a press briefing at the Rupayan Tower in the capital’s Bangla Motor area around 8:00 pm on Friday.

“Such a statement from a responsible position of the state is undesirable, particularly before any visible as well as effective progress in trials of the Awami League’s Pilkhana carnage, Shapla killings, anti-aggression movement killings, disappearances, crossfires, vote robberies, and July massacre,” he said.

In his written statement, Nahid Islam alleged that there is no visible progress in trials of mass murderer Sheikh Hasina and other killers of her party even after seven months of the student-people uprising. The UN human rights commission also mentioned clearly in its report that the crimes committed in Bangladesh during July qualify as crimes against humanity.

Despite having such a clear international statement, the slow pace of their trials is condemnable, he said, adding that the NCP wants to see visible progress in the trials of forceful disappearances and extrajudicial killings of the previous fascist regime, alongside the July massacre.

The NCP leader asserted that any attempt to allow Awami League to function as a political party without trials, confession, remorse, or correction of their crimes would amount to ‘rehabilitation of fascists.’ Their party seeks guarantee for the trials of the July massacre and other killings and crimes of the previous fascist regime.

“Throughout the trial process, registration of Awami League must remain revoked,” he said while expressing determination to resist any attempt by the ‘mafia group’ to get rehabilitated in politics.

Nahid Islam also reminded that “Awami League is not just a political or democratic party, but a fascist group. They were not defeated through voting in an election. Awami League, as a party, carried out a massacre in Bangladesh, under its organisational decision. In the aftermath, the fascist Awami regime has been overthrown through an unprecedented student-people uprising. Hence, it now remains out of the democratic framework.” the democratic framework.”​