NN Online:
The government had issued a gazette notification prohibiting all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League (AL) and its affiliated organizations under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This ban will remain in effect until the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) concludes trials against the party’s leaders and activists.
The notification, released by the Public Security Division of the Home Ministry, explicitly forbids any publications, media engagements, online or social media campaigns, rallies, meetings, assemblies, and conferences organized by the Awami League or its affiliates.
This decision follows a special meeting of the Council of Advisers on May 10, where Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul announced the ban, citing threats to national security and the need to protect plaintiffs and witnesses involved in the tribunal proceedings.
Additionally, the government has amended the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, granting the ICT authority to prosecute and punish any political party, its affiliates, or associated groups.
The Awami League, which has been accused of involvement in the deaths of hundreds of protesters during last year’s unrest, has condemned the move as undemocratic and divisive.
Meanwhile, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has welcomed the trial, labeling it a long-overdue step.
The ban is expected to have significant implications for Bangladesh’s political landscape, especially with upcoming elections later this year.
