Bangladesh Interim Government Bans Awami League Amid Ongoing Tribunal Trials

Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, imposed a ban on the Awami League on Saturday (10 May) evening under the country’s anti-terrorism law, reported PTI.

The office of Yunus announced that an official gazette notification regarding the decision would be issued on the next working day.

The declaration, described as a statement from the council of advisers (acting Cabinet), attributed the government’s action to maintain national security and stability during ongoing legal proceedings.

The council decided that the ban would remain effective until the completion of the trial of the Awami League and its leaders in Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal in the interest of protecting the country's security and sovereignty.

The interim administration has justified the ban as a safeguard for witnesses, complainants, and those involved in the July 2024 uprising, which resulted in the ousting of the Awami League-led regime.

Additionally, the council, during a meeting chaired by Yunus, amended the law governing the International Crimes Tribunal. The changes now empower the tribunal to prosecute not only individuals but also political parties, front organisations, and affiliated bodies.

Founded in 1949, the Awami League has been a central force in Bangladesh’s political history. It led the struggle for autonomy during the era of East Pakistan and was at the forefront of the Liberation War in 1971 that resulted in Bangladesh’s independence.

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