Bangladesh Bans Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League Under Anti-Terror Law Amid Rising Unrest

DHAKA:Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has suspended all activities of the Awami League under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act, citing national security and public safety concerns.

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed, now in self-imposed exile in India, faces an arrest warrant from Dhaka over alleged crimes against humanity. Government advisor Asif Nazar confirmed the suspension, stating that the move is aimed at ensuring the safety of the nation, protestors, and tribunal witnesses, until court proceedings against the party are concluded.

The decision follows recent amendments to the International Crimes Tribunal Act, granting authorities expanded power to prosecute political parties and affiliated organizations for serious offenses.

The ban comes just one day after thousands rallied outside Dr. Yunus’s residence, demanding action against the Awami League. The protest was led by activists from the National Citizen Party, which has been at the forefront of public dissent against the former Hasina government.

In a swift response, the Awami League denounced the suspension as illegitimate and politically motivated. Meanwhile, former senior party figure Abdul Hamid has reportedly fled the country while under investigation. Authorities have dismissed at least three airport police officers for negligence related to his escape.

This unprecedented crackdown underscores a dramatic shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape as the transitional government pushes forward with accountability efforts and seeks to stabilize the nation.