BNP welcomes government ban on Awami League activities
PARBATTA NEWS DESK
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed satisfaction over the interim government’s decision to suspend all activities of the Awami League (AL) under the Anti-Terrorism Act, pending the completion of its trial, along with that of its senior leaders, at the International Crimes Tribunal.
In an official statement, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “We are pleased that, albeit delayed, the interim government decided last night to ban the activities of the fascist party, the Awami League, and its affiliated organisations. This is essential to ensure a smooth and swift judicial process for those accused of crimes against humanity.”
Fakhrul described the amendment of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act as a “correct decision,” stating it would enable the prosecution of a party accused of enforced disappearances, political killings, repression, and long-term misrule.
However, he criticised the delay, stating, “Had this decision been taken earlier, as we had demanded, the government would not have found itself in the uncomfortable position of acting under pressure.”
He urged the interim government to act with greater foresight in the future, noting that the BNP had submitted formal letters to the Chief Adviser on 10 February and again on 16 April, demanding that the Awami League be prosecuted as a political entity for alleged crimes, including genocide.
“In our meetings with the Chief Adviser, we clearly stated that banning the fascist Awami League through legal means is both possible and necessary,” he said.
Fakhrul reiterated that the BNP opposes banning political parties through administrative orders and referenced the party’s earlier objection to the previous government’s decision to ban Jamaat-e-Islami before its fall.
“For 16 long years, the people of this country have fought for the right to vote and the restoration of democracy—enduring disappearances, killings, imprisonment, and systematic repression under the fascist regime,” he added.
He also warned the interim government not to ignore public sentiment. “The people’s demand for a democratic roadmap remains unmet. Growing frustration must not be overlooked.”
The Council of Advisers, in a special meeting held on Saturday night, formally announced the decision to suspend all activities of the Awami League, including online operations, under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The suspension will remain in force until the conclusion of ongoing trials at the International Crimes Tribunal.
Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, briefing reporters outside the State Guest House Jamuna, said the decision was taken to uphold national security and sovereignty, protect the safety of July Movement activists, and ensure the security of witnesses and plaintiffs involved in tribunal proceedings.
He added that the meeting also approved an amendment to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act to facilitate legal action against political parties.
