Saif
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The party was held right after Dr. Yunus got his Nobel peace prize.
[🇧🇩] Banning Awami League, Chhatra League and Jubo League
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Bangladesh Defense
Saif
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India says it is concerned by ban on Awami League
India said on Tuesday that it was concerned by the ban on the Awami League, as well as the ‘curtailment of democratic freedoms’ and "shrinking political space’ in Bangladesh. "We strongly support the early holding of free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh," Indian Forei
India says it is concerned by ban on Awami League
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 13, 2025 19:46
Updated :
May 13, 2025 19:46
India said on Tuesday that it was concerned by the ban on the Awami League, as well as the ‘curtailment of democratic freedoms’ and "shrinking political space’ in Bangladesh.
"We strongly support the early holding of free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh," Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a media briefing on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
Recently, the interim government banned all activities of the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act after days of protests.
Besides, the election commission also suspended the registration of ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League.
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 13, 2025 19:46
Updated :
May 13, 2025 19:46
India said on Tuesday that it was concerned by the ban on the Awami League, as well as the ‘curtailment of democratic freedoms’ and "shrinking political space’ in Bangladesh.
"We strongly support the early holding of free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh," Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a media briefing on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
Recently, the interim government banned all activities of the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act after days of protests.
Besides, the election commission also suspended the registration of ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League.
Saif
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AL can't participate in elections if stay order on registration not repealed: EC
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud has said the Awami League cannot take part in elections if the stay order on its registration is not repealed. He said the interim government has banned AL activities and the Election Commission has stayed the registration. So, the party has no scope for
AL can't participate in elections if stay order on registration not repealed: EC
BSS
Published :
May 19, 2025 19:57
Updated :
May 19, 2025 19:57
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud speaks at the inauguration of a daylong training in the conference hall of the Regional Public Administration Training Centre on Monday. Photo : BSS
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud has said the Awami League cannot take part in elections if the stay order on its registration is not repealed.
He said the interim government has banned AL activities and the Election Commission has stayed the registration. So, the party has no scope for taking part in elections.
Election Commissioner Masud made the observation while inaugurating a daylong training at the conference hall of the Regional Public Administration Training Centre in Rajshahi on Monday.
The Regional Election Office organised the training titled "Voter List Updating-2025, Subsequent Evaluation and Sustainable Development Planning" for election officials.
Abdur Rahmanel Masud said they are ready to hold the elections within the stipulated time fixed by the Chief Adviser.
Regarding election preparations, he stated that they are fully prepared. "As we are implementing an agency, we have no deficit in our preparation to hold the elections," he added.
Earlier, the election commissioner shared views with administrative and police officials at the Circuit House conference hall.
Election Commission Senior Secretary Akter Ahmed, Additional Commissioner of Rajshahi Division Habibur Rahman, Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Muhammad Abu Sufiyan, Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter, Superintendent of Police Farjana Islam, and Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain were present on the occasion.
BSS
Published :
May 19, 2025 19:57
Updated :
May 19, 2025 19:57
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud speaks at the inauguration of a daylong training in the conference hall of the Regional Public Administration Training Centre on Monday. Photo : BSS
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud has said the Awami League cannot take part in elections if the stay order on its registration is not repealed.
He said the interim government has banned AL activities and the Election Commission has stayed the registration. So, the party has no scope for taking part in elections.
Election Commissioner Masud made the observation while inaugurating a daylong training at the conference hall of the Regional Public Administration Training Centre in Rajshahi on Monday.
The Regional Election Office organised the training titled "Voter List Updating-2025, Subsequent Evaluation and Sustainable Development Planning" for election officials.
Abdur Rahmanel Masud said they are ready to hold the elections within the stipulated time fixed by the Chief Adviser.
Regarding election preparations, he stated that they are fully prepared. "As we are implementing an agency, we have no deficit in our preparation to hold the elections," he added.
Earlier, the election commissioner shared views with administrative and police officials at the Circuit House conference hall.
Election Commission Senior Secretary Akter Ahmed, Additional Commissioner of Rajshahi Division Habibur Rahman, Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Muhammad Abu Sufiyan, Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhter, Superintendent of Police Farjana Islam, and Regional Election Officer Delwar Hossain were present on the occasion.
Saif
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AL should be tried as a party: BNP
Secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said that the Awami League, as a party, should be brought under the trial process...
www.newagebd.net
AL should be tried as a party: BNP
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 10 July, 2025, 00:02
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir | New Age file photo
Secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said that the Awami League, as a party, should be brought under the trial process.
‘We always believe that everyone in any political party that supports fascism and acts as a fascist, as the Awami League has done, must be brought to justice,’ he said while talking to reporters after visiting BNP chairperson’s advisory council members Abdul Kuddus and Sirajuddin at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in the capital.
Mentioning the process of Sheikh Hasina’s trial has already begun, he said, ‘We are hopeful that everyone involved in these killings, genocides and fascist attacks along with her, Hasina, will be brought to justice.’
Regarding the BBC World’s special report on ‘The Battle for Bangladesh: Fall of Sheikh Hasina’, Fakhrul said that every individual involved in mass killings and repression should be brought under the law and face justice.
‘Especially the chief of that party, Sheikh Hasina, I believe she is solely responsible for the killing of thousands of people and the torture inflicted on them,’ he said.
BNP has been the biggest victim of the Awami League’s repression, torture, killings and enforced disappearances, he said and mentioned that he himself had been accused in 112 cases and had gone to jail 13 times.
In response to a question, he said, ‘If there is any true force for democracy in Bangladesh, it is the BNP, and no other party has fought as strongly for democracy as the BNP has.’
Fakhrul recalled that the BNP was the party that ended one-party rule in the country and introduced multi-party democracy, and later, a parliamentary democratic system.
‘The country must be saved through the united efforts of all, and it is the responsibility of every political party to put the country on the right track. The sooner it can be placed on this track, the better,’ he observed.
The BNP leader also said that those who believed that elections were unnecessary should reconsider their position, as elections were essential for the people.
Fakhrul said, ‘Bangladesh needs an elected government that is connected to the people.’
That is why, BNP supports reforms and is taking part in the process and discussions with the National Consensus Commission, he said, adding, ‘The BNP believes that there is no conflict between reform and elections, and both can go on together.’
Later, the BNP secretary general visited ailing singer Farida Parvin at Ayesha Memorial Hospital.
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka 10 July, 2025, 00:02
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir | New Age file photo
Secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said that the Awami League, as a party, should be brought under the trial process.
‘We always believe that everyone in any political party that supports fascism and acts as a fascist, as the Awami League has done, must be brought to justice,’ he said while talking to reporters after visiting BNP chairperson’s advisory council members Abdul Kuddus and Sirajuddin at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in the capital.
Mentioning the process of Sheikh Hasina’s trial has already begun, he said, ‘We are hopeful that everyone involved in these killings, genocides and fascist attacks along with her, Hasina, will be brought to justice.’
Regarding the BBC World’s special report on ‘The Battle for Bangladesh: Fall of Sheikh Hasina’, Fakhrul said that every individual involved in mass killings and repression should be brought under the law and face justice.
‘Especially the chief of that party, Sheikh Hasina, I believe she is solely responsible for the killing of thousands of people and the torture inflicted on them,’ he said.
BNP has been the biggest victim of the Awami League’s repression, torture, killings and enforced disappearances, he said and mentioned that he himself had been accused in 112 cases and had gone to jail 13 times.
In response to a question, he said, ‘If there is any true force for democracy in Bangladesh, it is the BNP, and no other party has fought as strongly for democracy as the BNP has.’
Fakhrul recalled that the BNP was the party that ended one-party rule in the country and introduced multi-party democracy, and later, a parliamentary democratic system.
‘The country must be saved through the united efforts of all, and it is the responsibility of every political party to put the country on the right track. The sooner it can be placed on this track, the better,’ he observed.
The BNP leader also said that those who believed that elections were unnecessary should reconsider their position, as elections were essential for the people.
Fakhrul said, ‘Bangladesh needs an elected government that is connected to the people.’
That is why, BNP supports reforms and is taking part in the process and discussions with the National Consensus Commission, he said, adding, ‘The BNP believes that there is no conflict between reform and elections, and both can go on together.’
Later, the BNP secretary general visited ailing singer Farida Parvin at Ayesha Memorial Hospital.
Saif
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AL can’t take part in elections as its activities suspended: Chief adviser to UK minister
Chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the upcoming general election will be free, fair, and inclusive.
en.prothomalo.com
AL can’t take part in elections as its activities suspended: Chief adviser to UK minister
BSSDhaka
Published: 14 Nov 2025, 15: 08
British minister for international development Baroness Jenny Chapman, calls on chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus at State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka in the evening of 13 November 2025.BSS
Chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the upcoming general election will be free, fair, and inclusive.
He made the remarks on Thursday evening during a meeting with visiting British minister for international development Baroness Jenny Chapman at the State Guest House Jamuna here, a press release from the CA’s Press Wing said today, Friday.
During their discussions, the two leaders covered a wide range of issues, including the February general election, tackling illegal migration, boosting trade, the Rohingya crisis, and enhancing cooperation in the aviation and maritime sectors.
“The election will be held on schedule in the first half of February,” professor Yunus reiterated, emphasising that it would be an inclusive and participatory one.
“The election will be participatory. There will be a big turnout,” he said, adding that tens of millions of young people are expected to cast their first ballots, as they had no opportunity to vote during the three rigged general elections over the 16-year-long autocracy.
The chief adviser said the Awami League would not be able to take part in the polls as its activities have been suspended under the country’s anti-terrorism laws, and the election commission has subsequently removed the party from the official list of registered political parties.
He added that the July Charter would mark “a new beginning” for Bangladesh, reflecting the aspirations of millions who took part in the historic July–August uprising last year.
Minister Chapman thanked professor Yunus for his leadership since assuming charge of the interim government and commended the ongoing dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties over the July Charter.
Chapman expressed concern about the abuse of the UK asylum system by migrants from several countries, including Bangladesh, and stressed the importance of safe and legal migration while curbing exploitation.
Professor Yunus agreed, emphasising that his government is committed to ensuring safe migration and encouraging more Bangladeshis to seek employment abroad through legal channels.
The two leaders also discussed the Rohingya crisis and the need for continued humanitarian support for more than a million refugees living in camps in Bangladesh.
“The young people in the camps are growing up without hope — angry and frustrated. We must ensure they receive education,” professor Yunus said.
The meeting also highlighted opportunities to boost trade and cooperation between Dhaka and London.
The chief adviser noted that Bangladesh is purchasing a British research vessel to conduct maritime studies in the Bay of Bengal.
Minister Chapman called for stronger aviation ties between the two nations, adding that the head of Airbus International is expected to visit Bangladesh soon.
National security adviser Khalilur Rahman, SDG coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke were present at the meeting.
BSSDhaka
Published: 14 Nov 2025, 15: 08
British minister for international development Baroness Jenny Chapman, calls on chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus at State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka in the evening of 13 November 2025.BSS
Chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the upcoming general election will be free, fair, and inclusive.
He made the remarks on Thursday evening during a meeting with visiting British minister for international development Baroness Jenny Chapman at the State Guest House Jamuna here, a press release from the CA’s Press Wing said today, Friday.
During their discussions, the two leaders covered a wide range of issues, including the February general election, tackling illegal migration, boosting trade, the Rohingya crisis, and enhancing cooperation in the aviation and maritime sectors.
“The election will be held on schedule in the first half of February,” professor Yunus reiterated, emphasising that it would be an inclusive and participatory one.
“The election will be participatory. There will be a big turnout,” he said, adding that tens of millions of young people are expected to cast their first ballots, as they had no opportunity to vote during the three rigged general elections over the 16-year-long autocracy.
The chief adviser said the Awami League would not be able to take part in the polls as its activities have been suspended under the country’s anti-terrorism laws, and the election commission has subsequently removed the party from the official list of registered political parties.
He added that the July Charter would mark “a new beginning” for Bangladesh, reflecting the aspirations of millions who took part in the historic July–August uprising last year.
Minister Chapman thanked professor Yunus for his leadership since assuming charge of the interim government and commended the ongoing dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties over the July Charter.
Chapman expressed concern about the abuse of the UK asylum system by migrants from several countries, including Bangladesh, and stressed the importance of safe and legal migration while curbing exploitation.
Professor Yunus agreed, emphasising that his government is committed to ensuring safe migration and encouraging more Bangladeshis to seek employment abroad through legal channels.
The two leaders also discussed the Rohingya crisis and the need for continued humanitarian support for more than a million refugees living in camps in Bangladesh.
“The young people in the camps are growing up without hope — angry and frustrated. We must ensure they receive education,” professor Yunus said.
The meeting also highlighted opportunities to boost trade and cooperation between Dhaka and London.
The chief adviser noted that Bangladesh is purchasing a British research vessel to conduct maritime studies in the Bay of Bengal.
Minister Chapman called for stronger aviation ties between the two nations, adding that the head of Airbus International is expected to visit Bangladesh soon.
National security adviser Khalilur Rahman, SDG coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke were present at the meeting.
Saif
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AL's activities will remain suspended, while others will continue: Mirza Fakhrul
In response to questions about the ban on political activities of the Awami League, BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "The activities of the Awami League are banned; they are closed and will remain closed. The others who are left will work and...
en.prothomalo.com
AL's activities will remain suspended, while others will continue: Mirza Fakhrul
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 19 Mar 2026, 21: 34
BNP secretary general and LGRD minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Taken from Mirza Fakhrul's Facebook page
In response to questions about the ban on political activities of the Awami League, BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "The activities of the Awami League are banned; they are closed and will remain closed. The others who are left will work and are working."
Wednesday night, Mirza Fakhrul interacted with journalists at BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman's office in Gulshan, Dhaka.
He made these remarks in response to a question from journalists.
Regarding the activities of the Awami League, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "They occasionally emerge suddenly. I don't think there's much to give importance to these. What I believe is that let politics proceed, let politics move in its own way, let democracy move in its own way. By looking at something in isolation, by stopping politics and hindering democracy, by blocking the path... Let it move, let them work."
Mirza Fakhrul said, "Since the Awami League's activities are now banned; they are closed and will remain closed. The others who are left will work and are working. The Awami League will try to do some activities. They are doing it. There is no gain. People have rejected them. People have completely rejected them, right?"
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 19 Mar 2026, 21: 34
BNP secretary general and LGRD minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Taken from Mirza Fakhrul's Facebook page
In response to questions about the ban on political activities of the Awami League, BNP Secretary General and Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "The activities of the Awami League are banned; they are closed and will remain closed. The others who are left will work and are working."
Wednesday night, Mirza Fakhrul interacted with journalists at BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman's office in Gulshan, Dhaka.
He made these remarks in response to a question from journalists.
Regarding the activities of the Awami League, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "They occasionally emerge suddenly. I don't think there's much to give importance to these. What I believe is that let politics proceed, let politics move in its own way, let democracy move in its own way. By looking at something in isolation, by stopping politics and hindering democracy, by blocking the path... Let it move, let them work."
Mirza Fakhrul said, "Since the Awami League's activities are now banned; they are closed and will remain closed. The others who are left will work and are working. The Awami League will try to do some activities. They are doing it. There is no gain. People have rejected them. People have completely rejected them, right?"
Saif
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Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill on ban of Awami League activities passed
The ‘Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) bill’ was passed in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon. The passed bill retains the contents of the Ordinance without any changes.
en.prothomalo.com
Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill on ban of Awami League activities passed
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 08 Apr 2026, 15: 49
The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament on 8 April 2026. Taken from BTV Facebook page
The National Parliament has approved the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance, promulgated during the tenure of the interim government, incorporating provisions to ban individuals or entities involved in terrorist activities, as well as their operations.
The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon. The passed bill retains the contents of the Ordinance without any changes.
Through the Ordinance, the interim government amended the Anti-Terrorism Act and decided to prohibit all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League and its leaders until the completion of their trial at the International Crimes Tribunal.
Previously, the Anti-Terrorism Act did not include any provision to ban the activities of an entity.
It stipulated that if any individual or entity engaged in terrorist activities, the government could, through a gazette notification, list the individual in the schedule or declare the entity banned.
However, the amendment introduced via the Ordinance added provisions enabling the prohibition of all activities of an entity. The bill was passed in the National Parliament today to turn it into law.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed placed the bill in parliament for passage.
At that time, leader of the opposition Shafiqur Rahman raised an objection, stating that they had received a comparative sheet only three to four minutes earlier and had not been able to read it in full.
He remarked that the matter concerns a sensitive law and requested additional time before its passage.
In response, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said that there is a specified time for raising objections.
He noted that had the objection been raised within that timeframe, it could have been considered; however, at this stage of the bill, no such opportunity remains.
The leader of the opposition replied, “Unfortunately, we have only just received the sheet.”
The Speaker responded that the matter might be reviewed later, but there was no scope to raise objections at this stage of the bill.
Subsequently, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed proposed the bill for passage.
He stated, “This bill is an amendment concerning the prohibition of a genocidal terrorist organisation. It seeks to amend the existing Anti-Terrorism Act. The leader of the opposition will surely recall that he, along with his colleagues in the NCP, took part in a movement. Following that movement, a public consensus largely emerged in Bangladesh. In that context, their activities have been banned under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Accordingly, their registration with the election commission has also been suspended. Under this law, subsequent amendments have been introduced to the ICT Act pursuant to Article 47, incorporating provisions for the trial of the organisation.”
The bill was later passed by voice vote.
Key provisions of the bill
The bill states that if any individual or entity is involved in terrorist activities, the government may, through a gazette notification, declare the entity banned, list it in the schedule, or prohibit all of its activities.
It further stipulates that any press release issued by, on behalf of, or in support of such an entity; any form of propaganda through mass media, online platforms, social media, or any other means; as well as organising processions, meetings, rallies, press conferences, or delivering public speeches—shall be prohibited.
Of the 133 ordinances promulgated during the previous interim government, a parliamentary special committee recommended that 98 be approved as they are and 15 in amended form.
It further recommended repealing four of the remaining 20 and strengthening the other 16 through new bills to be introduced later.
Among the 15 ordinances recommended for approval in amended form was the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) ordinance. However, the bill passed today, Wednesday includes no amendments.
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 08 Apr 2026, 15: 49
The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament on 8 April 2026. Taken from BTV Facebook page
The National Parliament has approved the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance, promulgated during the tenure of the interim government, incorporating provisions to ban individuals or entities involved in terrorist activities, as well as their operations.
The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon. The passed bill retains the contents of the Ordinance without any changes.
Through the Ordinance, the interim government amended the Anti-Terrorism Act and decided to prohibit all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League and its leaders until the completion of their trial at the International Crimes Tribunal.
Previously, the Anti-Terrorism Act did not include any provision to ban the activities of an entity.
It stipulated that if any individual or entity engaged in terrorist activities, the government could, through a gazette notification, list the individual in the schedule or declare the entity banned.
However, the amendment introduced via the Ordinance added provisions enabling the prohibition of all activities of an entity. The bill was passed in the National Parliament today to turn it into law.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed placed the bill in parliament for passage.
At that time, leader of the opposition Shafiqur Rahman raised an objection, stating that they had received a comparative sheet only three to four minutes earlier and had not been able to read it in full.
He remarked that the matter concerns a sensitive law and requested additional time before its passage.
In response, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said that there is a specified time for raising objections.
He noted that had the objection been raised within that timeframe, it could have been considered; however, at this stage of the bill, no such opportunity remains.
The leader of the opposition replied, “Unfortunately, we have only just received the sheet.”
The Speaker responded that the matter might be reviewed later, but there was no scope to raise objections at this stage of the bill.
Subsequently, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed proposed the bill for passage.
He stated, “This bill is an amendment concerning the prohibition of a genocidal terrorist organisation. It seeks to amend the existing Anti-Terrorism Act. The leader of the opposition will surely recall that he, along with his colleagues in the NCP, took part in a movement. Following that movement, a public consensus largely emerged in Bangladesh. In that context, their activities have been banned under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Accordingly, their registration with the election commission has also been suspended. Under this law, subsequent amendments have been introduced to the ICT Act pursuant to Article 47, incorporating provisions for the trial of the organisation.”
The bill was later passed by voice vote.
Key provisions of the bill
The bill states that if any individual or entity is involved in terrorist activities, the government may, through a gazette notification, declare the entity banned, list it in the schedule, or prohibit all of its activities.
It further stipulates that any press release issued by, on behalf of, or in support of such an entity; any form of propaganda through mass media, online platforms, social media, or any other means; as well as organising processions, meetings, rallies, press conferences, or delivering public speeches—shall be prohibited.
Of the 133 ordinances promulgated during the previous interim government, a parliamentary special committee recommended that 98 be approved as they are and 15 in amended form.
It further recommended repealing four of the remaining 20 and strengthening the other 16 through new bills to be introduced later.
Among the 15 ordinances recommended for approval in amended form was the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) ordinance. However, the bill passed today, Wednesday includes no amendments.
Saif
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Banning Awami League is paradox of history
The people of our country have certain characteristics. I'm not sure if it's geographical or anthropological in nature. Perhaps it's ingrained in the DNA. Even if we don't have food in our stomachs, we live day and night in a dream, and that dream is politics. Politics means parties, and parties...
en.prothomalo.com
Banning Awami League is paradox of history
Mohiuddin Ahmad
Updated: 10 Apr 2026, 19: 04
The people of our country have certain characteristics. I'm not sure if it's geographical or anthropological in nature. Perhaps it's ingrained in the DNA. Even if we don't have food in our stomachs, we live day and night in a dream, and that dream is politics. Politics means parties, and parties mean rivalry, as we can see.
Everyone is in a race—who will surpass whom, beat them, uproot them, and take control of the country. To legitimise this takeover, goals, ideals, and manifestos are crafted with all sorts of attractive words. Detailed programmes are made that seem to complicate people's lives. So what? This is politics. And politics, in this country, is a grand democratic right. Who has the courage to take away that right? Yet, one party manages to shut down another party's politics. It's said it protects public interest, strengthens democracy, and preserves the sovereignty of the state.
The game of banning parties in this country has been going on for a long time. When we first became independent, we had our cherished Pakistan. Right at the beginning, the Communist Party was banned because they didn't believe in democracy. They practiced class-struggle politics, and it was said they were anti-Islam. How could something anti-Islam exist in the Muslim country of Pakistan? During 1954, the ban on the Communist Party was lifted when a coalition government led by the United Front and later the Awami League was in power in East Pakistan. During Ayub Khan's military rule, the party was banned again, and this ban remained until 1971.
Then prohibition fell on Jamaat-e-Islami. The party was first banned in 1953 for inciting riots against the Ahmadiyya community in Lahore. The ban was lifted within a year. In 1961, for opposing the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, they were banned again, but returned to politics in 1965.
During Ayub Khan's military rule, no other political party was banned. However, political activities were prohibited for about four years. In 1971, Yahya Khan's military government banned the Awami League and the National Awami Party led by Wali Khan. The National Awami Party never returned to Pakistan under that name. The members of that party formed a new party called the Pakistan National Party.
In the early days of independent Bangladesh, no party was banned by law. Due to restrictions on religion-based politics in the constitution of 1972, Islamist parties naturally went into hiding. Among them were the Muslim League, Jamaat-e-Islami, Nizam-e-Islam Party, and Pakistan Democratic Party. During the Liberation War of 1971, they were collaborators of the Yahya regime. It's worth mentioning that these parties were already out of favour after the elections of 1970. Citizens voted them into oblivion.
On 25 January 1975, the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution was promulgated, effectively banning all political parties. State leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman launched a ''national'' political party—Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League (BAKSAL). It was essentially a rebranded version of the Awami League and its allies.
The landscape changed with the assassination of Mujib on 15 August 1975. The BAKSAL system was abolished, and political parties re-emerged. As a leader, General Ziaur Rahman rose, issued proclamations, changed and amended some constitutional provisions, which led to the resurgence of religion-based parties. The process of registering political parties began.
Between 1976 and 1977, there were several coup attempts to overthrow Ziaur Rahman's government. During that time, three parties were banned—the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) led by Moni Singh, the Democratic League led by Khandaker Mushtaque Ahmed, and the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) led by MA Awal. The JSD led by jailed leaders Jalil and Rob did not get registered as a party during that time. Within about a year, all restrictions were lifted. Ziaur Rahman moved towards a democratic system. For many years afterward, no political parties were banned in the country. Some parties, however, voluntarily remained underground, having an aversion to mainstream politics.
During the Liberation War of 1971, numerous war crimes and atrocities were committed in this country. Many murders and indiscriminate killings took place. Allegations were primarily against the Pakistani army and their collaborating political parties. Jamaat-e-Islami's name repeatedly came up as a collaborator. From 2009 onwards, the Awami League held power for many consecutive years. During that time, efforts were made to corner Jamaat.
Top leaders were jailed, many were executed. However, the party was not banned. Jamaat's registration was canceled by the Election Commission because parts of its constitution conflicted with the national constitution. This means they couldn't contest elections with a designated symbol, but party members could contest as independents or under another party's symbol.
In July 2024, we witnessed an unprecedented mass uprising. The Awami League government was in a precarious situation. Towards the end of July, the government, through an executive order, banned Jamaat. Two reasons emerged: the government believed Jamaat was orchestrating the mass uprising against it, or Jamaat was being set up as a scapegoat to divert public attention. On 5 August 2024, the tables turned, and Jamaat was free the next day.
There was intense public disapproval against the Awami League. Seizing the opportunity, Muhammad Yunus' interim government banned the Awami League's activities, preventing it from participating in the 2026 elections. By not allowing them to participate in the election, the interim government took away the voters' opportunity to reject the Awami League.
Here lies the question: who has the sovereign power to accept or reject a party? The voter or the government? The current BNP government has legislated in the ongoing parliamentary session to ban the Awami League. The idea that the Awami League could one day be banned and Jamaat-e-Islami could take seats in the national parliament is a ''paradox'' of history.
Why did the government decide to ban the Awami League at this stage? This is a million-dollar question. All parties represented in the parliament agreed on the decision. It can be said that this decision was made based on a kind of political consensus. Secondly, local government elections will be held soon. As a result, the Awami League will have the opportunity to organise itself at the grassroots level. Measures are in place to prevent that.
Another question arises: does the Awami League truly want to return to or become active in politics? Judging by their demeanor, it doesn't seem so. The top leaders of the party are all fugitives. The leadership, reliant on relatives, knowingly sent all relatives abroad before the uprising.
The party's president, Sheikh Hasina, is practically the owner of the party. Nothing in her behaviour suggests she wants to return to politics. If she had that intention, her words and actions would have been different. Now, her son speaks on her behalf. Has the Awami League ultimately become a mother-son party? Meanwhile, many supporters of her party are lamenting across the country, yet there's no trace of the party's owner. It's a massive party with supposedly millions of supporters. Where are they?
The Awami League may also have some strategies behind its ban. This will become clear in the days to come.
*Mohiuddin Ahmad is a writer and researcher.
Mohiuddin Ahmad
Updated: 10 Apr 2026, 19: 04
The people of our country have certain characteristics. I'm not sure if it's geographical or anthropological in nature. Perhaps it's ingrained in the DNA. Even if we don't have food in our stomachs, we live day and night in a dream, and that dream is politics. Politics means parties, and parties mean rivalry, as we can see.
Everyone is in a race—who will surpass whom, beat them, uproot them, and take control of the country. To legitimise this takeover, goals, ideals, and manifestos are crafted with all sorts of attractive words. Detailed programmes are made that seem to complicate people's lives. So what? This is politics. And politics, in this country, is a grand democratic right. Who has the courage to take away that right? Yet, one party manages to shut down another party's politics. It's said it protects public interest, strengthens democracy, and preserves the sovereignty of the state.
The game of banning parties in this country has been going on for a long time. When we first became independent, we had our cherished Pakistan. Right at the beginning, the Communist Party was banned because they didn't believe in democracy. They practiced class-struggle politics, and it was said they were anti-Islam. How could something anti-Islam exist in the Muslim country of Pakistan? During 1954, the ban on the Communist Party was lifted when a coalition government led by the United Front and later the Awami League was in power in East Pakistan. During Ayub Khan's military rule, the party was banned again, and this ban remained until 1971.
Then prohibition fell on Jamaat-e-Islami. The party was first banned in 1953 for inciting riots against the Ahmadiyya community in Lahore. The ban was lifted within a year. In 1961, for opposing the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, they were banned again, but returned to politics in 1965.
During Ayub Khan's military rule, no other political party was banned. However, political activities were prohibited for about four years. In 1971, Yahya Khan's military government banned the Awami League and the National Awami Party led by Wali Khan. The National Awami Party never returned to Pakistan under that name. The members of that party formed a new party called the Pakistan National Party.
In the early days of independent Bangladesh, no party was banned by law. Due to restrictions on religion-based politics in the constitution of 1972, Islamist parties naturally went into hiding. Among them were the Muslim League, Jamaat-e-Islami, Nizam-e-Islam Party, and Pakistan Democratic Party. During the Liberation War of 1971, they were collaborators of the Yahya regime. It's worth mentioning that these parties were already out of favour after the elections of 1970. Citizens voted them into oblivion.
On 25 January 1975, the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution was promulgated, effectively banning all political parties. State leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman launched a ''national'' political party—Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League (BAKSAL). It was essentially a rebranded version of the Awami League and its allies.
The landscape changed with the assassination of Mujib on 15 August 1975. The BAKSAL system was abolished, and political parties re-emerged. As a leader, General Ziaur Rahman rose, issued proclamations, changed and amended some constitutional provisions, which led to the resurgence of religion-based parties. The process of registering political parties began.
Between 1976 and 1977, there were several coup attempts to overthrow Ziaur Rahman's government. During that time, three parties were banned—the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) led by Moni Singh, the Democratic League led by Khandaker Mushtaque Ahmed, and the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) led by MA Awal. The JSD led by jailed leaders Jalil and Rob did not get registered as a party during that time. Within about a year, all restrictions were lifted. Ziaur Rahman moved towards a democratic system. For many years afterward, no political parties were banned in the country. Some parties, however, voluntarily remained underground, having an aversion to mainstream politics.
During the Liberation War of 1971, numerous war crimes and atrocities were committed in this country. Many murders and indiscriminate killings took place. Allegations were primarily against the Pakistani army and their collaborating political parties. Jamaat-e-Islami's name repeatedly came up as a collaborator. From 2009 onwards, the Awami League held power for many consecutive years. During that time, efforts were made to corner Jamaat.
Top leaders were jailed, many were executed. However, the party was not banned. Jamaat's registration was canceled by the Election Commission because parts of its constitution conflicted with the national constitution. This means they couldn't contest elections with a designated symbol, but party members could contest as independents or under another party's symbol.
In July 2024, we witnessed an unprecedented mass uprising. The Awami League government was in a precarious situation. Towards the end of July, the government, through an executive order, banned Jamaat. Two reasons emerged: the government believed Jamaat was orchestrating the mass uprising against it, or Jamaat was being set up as a scapegoat to divert public attention. On 5 August 2024, the tables turned, and Jamaat was free the next day.
There was intense public disapproval against the Awami League. Seizing the opportunity, Muhammad Yunus' interim government banned the Awami League's activities, preventing it from participating in the 2026 elections. By not allowing them to participate in the election, the interim government took away the voters' opportunity to reject the Awami League.
Here lies the question: who has the sovereign power to accept or reject a party? The voter or the government? The current BNP government has legislated in the ongoing parliamentary session to ban the Awami League. The idea that the Awami League could one day be banned and Jamaat-e-Islami could take seats in the national parliament is a ''paradox'' of history.
Why did the government decide to ban the Awami League at this stage? This is a million-dollar question. All parties represented in the parliament agreed on the decision. It can be said that this decision was made based on a kind of political consensus. Secondly, local government elections will be held soon. As a result, the Awami League will have the opportunity to organise itself at the grassroots level. Measures are in place to prevent that.
Another question arises: does the Awami League truly want to return to or become active in politics? Judging by their demeanor, it doesn't seem so. The top leaders of the party are all fugitives. The leadership, reliant on relatives, knowingly sent all relatives abroad before the uprising.
The party's president, Sheikh Hasina, is practically the owner of the party. Nothing in her behaviour suggests she wants to return to politics. If she had that intention, her words and actions would have been different. Now, her son speaks on her behalf. Has the Awami League ultimately become a mother-son party? Meanwhile, many supporters of her party are lamenting across the country, yet there's no trace of the party's owner. It's a massive party with supposedly millions of supporters. Where are they?
The Awami League may also have some strategies behind its ban. This will become clear in the days to come.
*Mohiuddin Ahmad is a writer and researcher.
