Bangladesh Bans the Political Party of Its Ousted Former Ruler
In a significant development in Bangladesh’s political landscape, the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has officially banned all activities of the Awami League, the party of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This decision, announced on May 10, 2025, was enacted under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act, citing national security concerns. The ban will remain in effect until a special tribunal concludes trials against the party and its leaders for alleged involvement in the deaths of hundreds of protesters during anti-government uprisings in July and August of the previous year. (apnews.com)
The move follows a series of street protests led by the student-driven National Citizen Party, which emerged from the uprising that ended Hasina’s 15-year rule. Several Islamist and right-wing parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, joined the demonstrations, demanding the Awami League be designated a terrorist organization. The government also amended the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Act, allowing the tribunal to prosecute not only individuals but … organizations. (reuters.com)
In response to the ban, the Awami League dismissed the decision as illegitimate … stating, “All decisions of the illegal … .” The party has been a major force in Bangladeshi politics since its founding in 1949, and its current status remains uncertain as the country navigates this period of political upheaval. (reuters.com)
The unrest began in July 2024 with student protests against public sector … which quickly escalated into one of the deadliest … . The protests culminated in Hasina’s resignation and departure to India in August 2024. In the aftermath, the interim government, led by Yunus, has pledged reforms and indicated that elections could be delayed until 202 … . (reuters.com)
As the political crisis continues to unfold, the future of the Awami League and its role in Bangladesh’s political landscape remain subjects of intense debate and scrutiny.