Dhaka, April 9 (NationPress) The Awami League of Bangladesh has vehemently criticized a parliamentary bill that effectively prohibits the party, labeling this action a “disgraceful act” and a blatant assault on democratic principles.

This condemnation followed the parliament's passage of the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2026 on Wednesday, which remained unchanged from the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 enacted by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

According to the ordinance, the interim government has modified the anti-terrorism legislation to suspend all activities of the Awami League until the party and its leaders face trial at the International Crimes Tribunal.

In response to the bill, the Awami League stated, “The National Parliament of Bangladesh has been disgraced.” This marks a shameful chapter in our history. A parliament has been established through a so-called election, which, in utter disregard for democratic values, has passed a bill that bans the historic political party that spearheaded Bangladesh's Liberation War—the Bangladesh Awami League.

“The National Parliament is a revered institution, embodying the essence of democratic culture in our country. Yet, it has been misused to promote forces that are anti-independence and anti-state. This decision does not merely target one political party; it represents a direct challenge to democratic practices, a just political framework, and the essential rights of the people,” the party asserted.

The party expressed alarm that attempting to eliminate a political entity shaped by history, tradition, and struggle undermines the core of democracy and steers the nation toward a “one-party or authoritarian direction.”

Additionally, they stated that this initiative signifies “hostility toward history itself,” which the citizens of Bangladesh will never accept.

The Awami League emphasized that “repression, bans, or the abuse of law” will not yield lasting resolutions; instead, they foster “instability and divisions in society and obstruct democratic culture.”

They called for all pro-democracy individuals, political groups, civil society, professional organizations, and the youth of Bangladesh to unite in the “fight for democratic rights, freedom of expression, and adherence to the rule of law.”

“The triumph of the people and democracy is unavoidable. Inspired by our history and fortified in our convictions, we will persist in our movement and struggle,” the party concluded.