Is There Any Chance of Lifting the Ban on Awami League Activities?
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Synopsis
The interim government in Bangladesh remains steadfast in its decision to maintain the ban on Awami League activities, with Law Advisor Asif Nazrul highlighting the lack of signs indicating a potential lift of restrictions. This comes amidst heightened political tensions following the recent ousting of Sheikh Hasina.
Key Takeaways
- Asif Nazrul confirmed the ban on Awami League activities will remain in place.
- The ban was issued under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
- Political tensions in Bangladesh have escalated after the ousting of former PM Sheikh Hasina.
- Blocking NID cards is seen as a tactic to undermine political rights.
- Analysts view this as a political vendetta against the Awami League.
Dhaka, Oct 1 (NationPress) The Law Advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, Asif Nazrul, firmly dismissed any plans for an immediate lifting of the ban on the Awami League's activities, according to local media reports.
This statement came after the Chief Advisor of the interim government, Mohammad Yunus, indicated that the activities of the Awami League would be suspended temporarily and could resume at any moment.
During a press interaction in Barisal, Nazrul mentioned, "When a political party's activities are halted, questions about the duration of the ban—be it temporary or permanent—naturally arise. However, I currently do not see any signs that the ban on the Awami League's activities will be lifted in the near future," as reported by United News of Bangladesh (UNB).
In contrast, Yunus, in a recent interview with the international media outlet Zeteo on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, stated, "They [Awami League] remain valid as a party, but their activities are suspended for the time being. They could resume at any time."
When asked if he implied that the Awami League’s activities could be "unsuspended," Yunus responded, "That’s a possibility," as reported by The Daily Star.
Since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last August, the Yunus-led interim government has intensified its efforts against Awami League leaders and activists, many of whom have faced imprisonment on dubious charges, with several reportedly dying in custody.
Local media also reported last month that Hasina and several family members would be prohibited from voting in the upcoming elections as their National Identity (NID) Cards have been blocked, effectively stripping them of their political rights.
Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed informed reporters that "anyone whose NID card has been locked cannot vote from abroad. Those who fled due to legal issues or other reasons face no obstacles in voting, provided their NID remains unlocked."
When asked about Hasina’s voting capability, he confirmed, "She cannot vote because her NID is blocked."
Earlier, in July, the EC removed the election symbol associated with Hasina's Awami League party from its website, a move interpreted by local media as an attempt to erase the party's long-standing political existence in the country.
On May 12, the Yunus-led interim government issued a gazette notification banning all Awami League activities and those of its affiliated organizations.
This ban was enforced under the 'Anti-Terrorism Act' until the party and its leaders undergo trial in Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
Experts interpret these recent developments as part of a political vendetta orchestrated by the interim government led by Yunus against former PM Hasina and her family, aiming to prevent the Awami League from participating in national elections.
Point of View
Maintaining an impartial perspective is crucial. The ongoing political landscape in Bangladesh raises important questions about governance and political rights. The situation demands attention, given the implications for democracy and civil liberties. It’s essential that all viewpoints are considered, ensuring that the nation progresses with transparency and inclusivity.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Awami League activities in Bangladesh?
The activities of the Awami League remain banned as per the interim government’s decision, and there are no immediate plans to lift this ban.
Who is Asif Nazrul?
Asif Nazrul is the Law Advisor to the interim government of Bangladesh, responsible for providing legal guidance on political matters.
What reasons have been given for banning Awami League activities?
The ban has been enforced under the 'Anti-Terrorism Act' pending trials involving the party and its leaders.
What has been said about the future of Awami League's political activities?
While the Chief Advisor has indicated that the activities are temporarily suspended, there are no clear timelines for when they may resume.
What are the implications of the NID card blocks for Sheikh Hasina?
The blocked NID cards prevent Sheikh Hasina and her family from voting in the upcoming elections, stripping them of their political rights.
