Bangladesh: Awami League Members Organize Surprise Rally in Khulna
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Synopsis
On April 20, the Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, conducted a surprise rally in Khulna, defying government orders. This marked a significant public display of support since the party's government fell last year, with chants expressing loyalty to Hasina amidst ongoing legal troubles.
Key Takeaways
- The Awami League organized a surprise rally in Khulna.
- Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains a focal point for supporters.
- Government officials have warned law enforcement against allowing such processions.
- Interpol is being asked to issue a red notice against Hasina and others.
- The political landscape in Bangladesh continues to evolve amid legal challenges.
Dhaka, April 20 (NationPress) On Sunday morning, members of the Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, organized a surprise rally in Khulna city, despite directives from the interim government aimed at curtailing such events.
This demonstration, conducted under the auspices of the Bangladesh Awami League, Khulna District Unit, marked the first public display of support in the region since the fall of the Awami League government last year, according to local media.
Footage from the event highlighted participants displaying a banner adorned with images of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Hasina, as reported by the prominent daily, Prothom Alo.
Chants such as, "Sheikh Hasina, we are not afraid, we have not left the streets," "Sheikh Hasina's government, needed again and again," and "Sheikh Hasina will return like a hero" were reportedly heard throughout the gathering.
This protest occurred shortly after Home Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury issued a warning to law enforcement, stating that they would face repercussions if they did not successfully suppress Awami League rallies.
According to The Business Standard, the Home Advisor declared, "Police officers have been instructed that if they fail to control this properly, disciplinary action will be taken against them."
The Officer-in-Charge of the Horintana police station, Khairul Bashar, accused Awami League members of leaping from a vehicle to carry out the flash procession before escaping.
"Since it occurred in the early morning, the streets were relatively quiet. Police are actively working to identify and apprehend those involved," he added.
In the meantime, Bangladesh has sought Interpol to issue a red notice against former Prime Minister Hasina and 11 others related to accusations of conspiracy to topple the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.
The leading Bangladeshi newspaper, The Dhaka Tribune, quoted Assistant Inspector General (Media) Enamul Haque Sagor, who confirmed these developments.
"These requests are made in connection with allegations that arise during investigations or ongoing case proceedings," he mentioned.
Once issued, the red notice would allow global law enforcement agencies to locate and provisionally detain the accused individuals pending extradition or other legal actions.
"Interpol plays a crucial role in locating fugitives residing abroad. When the whereabouts of any absconding individual are confirmed, that information is communicated to Interpol," Sagor added, noting that the red notice request is currently under review.
Hasina, who is currently facing over 100 legal cases ranging from mass murder to corruption, fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year following a significant student-led movement that led to the collapse of her 16-year rule under the Awami League.
Reports indicate that she has been residing in India since then.
Most of her former ministers and high-ranking party officials have either been detained or have fled the country to avoid prosecution on serious allegations, including crimes against humanity.
