Awami League banned under Anti-Terror Law by Bangladesh's Interim Government

The interim government of Bangladesh has officially decided to ban the political activities of the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act, citing national security and sovereignty concerns. The decision was announced following an emergency meeting of the Advisory Council, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

The interim government of Bangladesh has officially decided to ban the political activities of the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act, citing national security and sovereignty concerns. The decision was announced following an emergency meeting of the Advisory Council, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

In a press briefing after the meeting, Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul stated that the ban will cover all activities of the Awami League, including its cyber presence, until legal proceedings against the party and its leaders are concluded in the International Crimes Tribunal.

A statement issued by the Advisory Council confirmed that an amendment to the International Crimes Tribunal Act was approved during the meeting. The amendment empowers the tribunal to prosecute political parties, affiliated organizations, and support groups for crimes under its jurisdiction.

“In order to protect national security, ensure the safety of leaders and activists of the July Movement, and safeguard witnesses and plaintiffs in the tribunal, all activities of the Awami League have been prohibited under the Anti-Terrorism Act,” said the council’s statement.

The government also announced that an official circular regarding the ban will be issued on the next working day. In addition, the council resolved to finalize and publish the "July Declaration" within 30 working days.

Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Mahfuz Alam, also confirmed the decision in a Facebook post: “The decision to ban the Awami League’s activities has been made. Legal provisions to formally ban the party have been introduced. The July Declaration will be released within 30 working days.”

The move comes amid growing pressure from political groups, including the National Citizen Party (NCP), which have staged continuous protests over the past three days demanding a ban on the Awami League and trials for its leaders. Demonstrations culminated yesterday with a mass gathering near the chief adviser’s residence in Jamuna, followed by a blockade at Shahbagh intersection.

In a statement released Friday by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, the government acknowledged the growing public demand to ban the Awami League and said it was being taken seriously.

The interim government also noted that it is reviewing a United Nations report detailing alleged violent activities by Awami League members. Citizens have been urged to remain calm and patient until further notice.

Previously, in response to public demand, the government had already declared the Awami League’s student wing, Bangladesh Chhatra League, a terrorist organization. Authorities are now preparing further legal amendments under the International Crimes Tribunal Act to take action against other organizations linked to crimes against humanity.