Dhaka, Dec 4 (NationPress) The Awami League of Bangladesh has claimed that the Chief Advisor of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has effectively prevented nearly 40 percent of the nation’s voters from participating in the February 2026 elections by halting all activities of the party.

This single directive has transformed the approaching election into a “carefully orchestrated event” that excludes genuine competition.

According to the Awami League, “When Yunus put a stop to all Awami League activities, it was more than just an administrative action; it represented an unprecedented political suppression in Bangladesh’s history. With one executive decision, he silenced the country’s largest political entity and effectively muted the voices of nearly 40 percent of the electorate. There was no debate, no due process, and no public mandate—just unchecked authority,” stated the party.

The party asserted that this situation is neither coincidental nor a misunderstanding but rather part of a strategic pattern. They warned that as the main political force in the country is sidelined, radical Islamist organizations such as Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam are beginning to gain influence not seen in many years.

“While Yunus is excluding millions from the democratic process, he is inadvertently inviting in the very elements Bangladesh has long sought to control. Lacking popular support, he has relied on groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islami to establish his new political foundation. These factions, previously restricted due to their violent and extremist agendas, are now receiving fresh legitimacy, freedom, and protection in return for rallying support for Yunus,” highlighted the Awami League.

Simultaneously, the party pointed out that assaults on women’s rights, increasing pressure on minorities, and “moral policing” have become alarmingly prevalent in Bangladesh.

“Gradually, Bangladesh appears to be heading towards a direction reminiscent of a softer version of Talibanisation, executed not by radicals in the streets, but rather through decisions made at the highest levels of government,” asserted the Awami League.

The party emphasized that by prohibiting the Awami League from competing, Yunus has effectively transformed the forthcoming election into a manufactured ceremony. With the leading political force eliminated, the outcome is alleged to be essentially predetermined, paving the way for an “Islamist-influenced” regime arising from a ballot that lacks real significance.

“This is the Taliban model in operation: elections conducted for show, with power determined in advance,” declared the Awami League.

As extremist groups gain political traction, the party warned that Bangladesh is confronting escalating intolerance, diminishing freedoms, and an increasing threat to minorities. They highlighted that such instability transcends borders, undermining regional security and harming the nation’s international reputation.