Why Are Awami League Supporters Protesting at the UN?
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Synopsis
On May 20, supporters of the Awami League gathered outside the UN headquarters to protest the ongoing ban on their party in Bangladesh. They implored the UN to intervene for the restoration of democracy, highlighting the controversial leadership of Muhammad Yunus. This demonstration underscores the tensions surrounding Bangladesh's political landscape and the call for fair elections.
Key Takeaways
- Awami League supporters protested at the UN against their party's ban.
- The protestors demanded the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh.
- The current regime, led by Muhammad Yunus, is viewed as illegitimate by many.
- The Bangladesh Election Commission has suspended the Awami League’s registration.
- About 75 individuals participated in the demonstration.
United Nations, May 20 (NationPress) Supporters of the Awami League staged a protest on Monday outside the UN headquarters, opposing the ban imposed on the party in Bangladesh and urging the global body to take steps to reinstate democracy.
Siddique Rahman, the president of the USA Awami League, stated, “The unlawful regime of Muhammad Yunus has prohibited the Awami League, the party that was legally elected by the people.”
He emphasized that for elections to be conducted inclusively, as the UN desires, the ban must be lifted, allowing the League to participate.
Rahman insisted that the UN must take action to restore democracy.
While Yunus may be a Nobel laureate, he is currently acting as a dictator leading an unelected government that has usurped the rightful administration, added Rahman.
Around 75 participants from the USA Awami League, Committee for Democratic Bangladesh, Congress of Bangladeshi Americans, and the America Bangladesh Community Development Initiative took part in the demonstration.
Speakers at the rally called on the US to demand the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh.
The interim government, led by Yunus, assumed control during civil unrest and protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, subsequently banning the Awami League under the Anti-terrorism Act.
Recently, the Bangladesh Election Commission suspended the party's registration, rendering it ineligible for upcoming elections.
No election date has yet been established in Bangladesh.
Prodip Kar, an organizer of the protest, mentioned that a memorandum outlining their demands was submitted to the UN.
He asserted that Sheikh Hasina is still the legitimate prime minister, while Yunus seized power with the backing of “the Jamaat-e-Islami and terrorists.”
Point of View
It is crucial to remain neutral while highlighting the voices of both the supporters of the Awami League and the current government. The ongoing dispute over the political situation in Bangladesh reflects deep divisions within the country. Engaging with both sides can provide a fuller understanding of the implications for democracy and governance in the region.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the Awami League protest at the UN?
The supporters are protesting against the ban on the Awami League in Bangladesh and are demanding that the UN ensures the restoration of democracy.
Who is leading the protest?
The protest is led by Siddique Rahman, the president of the USA Awami League.
What actions have been taken against the Awami League?
The Bangladesh Election Commission recently suspended the party's registration, making it ineligible for elections.
What are the demands of the protestors?
The protestors are demanding the lifting of the ban on the Awami League and the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh.
Who currently leads the interim government in Bangladesh?
The interim government is led by Muhammad Yunus.
