Is Yunus Misusing Counterterrorism Laws Against Awami League Leaders?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Human Rights Watch has called out the Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh for its misuse of counterterrorism laws against purported supporters of the Awami League. The organization urges the UN to advocate for the release of unjustly detained individuals while emphasizing the need for a fair justice system.
Key Takeaways
- HRW criticizes the misuse of counterterrorism laws.
- Call for UN intervention to release detainees.
- Amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act deemed politically motivated.
- Concerns over media freedom highlighted by the Editors' Council.
- Reports of mob violence raise alarm over public safety.
New York, Oct 9 (NationPress) Human Rights Watch (HRW), a US-based advocacy organization, has expressed strong condemnation towards the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, for the escalating use of the recently revised counterterrorism legislation to detain individuals purportedly linked to the former Awami League administration.
HRW has called upon the United Nations human rights delegation in Bangladesh to urgently advocate for the release of those unjustly imprisoned and to press the authorities to respect human rights and take legal action against anyone engaging in unlawful political violence.
The Anti-Terrorism Act was established in 2009 under the rule of the Awami League, headed by Sheikh Hasina.
According to HRW, the 2025 amendments introduced by the Yunus-led interim government were intended to hold Awami League members accountable for their alleged misconduct during their time in power, responding to requests from various political factions and student groups.
Meenakshi Ganguly, Deputy Asia Director at HRW, stated, "The Bangladeshi government must cease the misuse of the anti-terrorism law, which is turning into a method of political oppression disguised as legal action. The interim administration should concentrate on fostering conditions conducive to safe and inclusive elections."
The organization emphasized that infringing upon the right to peaceful expression and assembly contravenes international standards.
HRW pointed out that thousands have been detained under the interim government, many facing dubious murder charges, with numerous individuals held under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
The Bangladesh Editors' Council has cautioned that modifications to the Anti-Terrorism Act would "restrict individual freedom of expression and narrow the broad scope of media liberty, raising serious concerns about press freedom." On the contrary, Yunus has refuted any claims of curtailing freedom of expression.
HRW criticized the Yunus administration, noting its failure to manage radical Islamist groups that have resorted to violence to assert their demands, including targeting Awami League supporters and opposing women’s rights.
Additionally, referencing reports from the Dhaka-based organization Ain O Salish Kendra (AsK), HRW indicated that at least 152 individuals have lost their lives due to mob violence since January.
One political activist remarked, "Currently, we face a choice of being imprisoned as terrorists or confronting a mob. While I agree that the guilty must face justice, it must be through a fair legal system, which the Yunus government has failed to provide," HRW reported.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of upholding human rights in any democratic society. The allegations against the Yunus administration highlight the delicate balance between governance and civil liberties. The situation needs careful monitoring to ensure that political repression does not overshadow the fundamental rights of individuals.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main concern raised by Human Rights Watch?
HRW is concerned about the misuse of counterterrorism laws by the Yunus-led interim government to arrest alleged supporters of the Awami League, which it views as political repression.
What does HRW suggest the UN should do?
HRW urges the United Nations human rights team in Bangladesh to advocate for the release of individuals detained arbitrarily and to encourage the government to uphold human rights.
What was the original intention behind the Anti-Terrorism Act?
The Anti-Terrorism Act was enacted in 2009 to combat terrorism; however, HRW claims it is now being misused for political purposes.
How many people have reportedly been killed in mob violence this year?
According to reports from Ain O Salish Kendra, at least 152 individuals have been killed in mob attacks since January.
What has been the response from the Bangladesh Editors' Council?
The Bangladesh Editors' Council has warned that amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act could severely limit freedom of expression and press freedom.
