Why Have 21 Awami League Leaders Been Arrested?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Bangladesh police have detained 21 leaders of the Awami League in Narayanganj, amidst rising tensions ahead of a critical ICT verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The arrests come during a two-day strike by the Awami League, raising concerns over political motivations behind these actions.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh police arrested 21 Awami League leaders in Narayanganj.
- Security heightened with checkpoints and mobile patrols.
- Ongoing crackdown coincides with an ICT verdict against Sheikh Hasina.
- Awami League claims the trial is politically motivated.
- Concerns raised over the state of democracy in Bangladesh.
Dhaka, Nov 17 (NationPress) Bangladesh police have detained at least 21 leaders and supporters of the Awami League in Narayanganj district within the past 36 hours, according to local news reports as of Monday morning. Additional Superintendent of Police Tarek Al Mehedi confirmed this development, stating that security measures have been enhanced throughout the district to ensure law and order.
He mentioned that nine checkpoints have been set up at major entry points to Dhaka, along with significant roadways and highways, while twenty-six mobile teams are actively patrolling the area, as reported by the country's leading newspaper, The Daily Star.
This latest incident occurs amidst a continuing crackdown on Awami League leaders and their supporters, under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, ahead of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) verdict concerning Sheikh Hasina.
On Sunday, the police apprehended 44 leaders and activists of the Awami League in various locations across Cumilla district. Police Superintendent Mohammad Nazir Ahmed Khan indicated that, based on intelligence, they detained 29 members of the Awami League's student wing, Chhatra League, who were accused of planning sabotage in Tomsom Bridge, Badurtala, and Dharmasagarpar while preparing for a flash procession.
Additionally, 15 more Chhatra League members were arrested during district-wide raids. In the backdrop, Dhaka is under an unprecedented security clampdown after Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali issued a 'shoot-at-sight order' targeting individuals involved in arson attacks, cocktail explosions, or attempts to harm police and civilians ahead of the ICT verdict.
The two-day strike organized by Hasina's Awami League for November 16–17 has coincided with a rise in cocktail explosions and arson incidents throughout the capital.
The ICT is set to announce its verdict on Monday regarding the case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two co-defendants, who face charges of crimes against humanity linked to protests in July of the previous year.
The other co-defendants include former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police, Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who is currently in custody and has pleaded guilty.
According to the Awami League, numerous observers, legal experts, and human rights activists have expressed serious concerns about the ongoing case against Hasina.
The party has asserted that many view this as less a trial and more of a politically motivated effort by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government to eliminate a democratically elected leader from Bangladesh's future.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the arrests made against Awami League leaders. While maintaining public order is crucial, the implications of these actions on the political landscape of Bangladesh warrant serious scrutiny. Our commitment remains steadfast in reporting the truth and providing a balanced view of the unfolding situation.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of Awami League leaders?
The arrests were made as part of a crackdown under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, coinciding with an upcoming ICT verdict against Sheikh Hasina.
How many leaders were arrested?
At least 21 leaders and activists of the Awami League were arrested across Narayanganj district.
What security measures were implemented?
Nine checkpoints were established, and 26 mobile teams were deployed to patrol the district.
What is the significance of the ICT verdict?
The ICT verdict is expected to address serious charges against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and others, raising concerns about political motivations.
What are the reactions from the Awami League?
The Awami League has raised concerns that the trial is politically motivated and aimed at undermining a democratically elected leader.
