Bangladesh's Interim Government, Led by Yunus, Bans Sheikh Hasina's Awami League Until ICT Trial Completion

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has banned the Awami League, the party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in exile, under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The decision was announced following an emergency meeting of the Advisory Council, with the ban to remain in effect until the completion of the party's trial at the International Crimes Tribunal. The ban extends to all activities of the Awami League, both in cyberspace and elsewhere, as stated by Law Adviser Asif Nazrul. This move comes amid waves of protests over the last two days, fueled by the National Citizen Party and supported by Islamist groups, following the July 2024 uprising that led to the ousting of the Awami League regime. The interim government cites national security and the need to protect activists of the July movement as reasons for the ban. The interim government has also amended the International Crimes Tribunal Act, 1973, to allow the tribunal to punish political parties, their affiliated organizations, or support groups. Additionally, the Advisory Council has resolved to finalize and publish the July Declaration within the next 30 working days.