The Bangladesh government has officially banned all activities of the Awami League and its affiliated, associated, and fraternal organizations under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The Home Ministry issued the notification on May 12, with further clarification provided by the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing on the evening of May 13.
According to the notification, the ban covers all forms of organizational activity—including publications, campaigns, processions, meetings, and conferences—until the ongoing trials at the International Crimes Tribunal are concluded. The restriction applies to all leaders, activists, and members of the Awami League and its associated groups.
However, the government emphasized that the ban does not apply to other political parties or restrict lawful, constructive, and rational criticism of the Awami League or the government’s actions.
The decision follows longstanding allegations of human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, murders, and acts of terrorism, particularly during last year’s mass student protests. The government claims the Awami League and its affiliates have engaged in recent terrorist activities aimed at obstructing justice, intimidating witnesses, and destabilizing public order.
Authorities justified the move as necessary to preserve national security and ensure the integrity of the judicial process. Several cases against the party and its members are currently pending in the International Crimes Tribunal and other criminal courts.
