Home
+
Published : 13 May 2025, 03:02 AM
The interim government is confident that the notification banning the activities of the Awami League will not impede any political party or individual’s right to free expression.
In a statement released shortly after midnight on Monday, the Chief Advisor’s Office (CAO) clarified that the home ministry’s directive was issued under the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act.
It explained the context of the order, which prohibits all organisational activities of the ousted party.
“The notification doesn’t undermine the freedom of expression of any other political party or individual. It doesn’t restrict logical, constructive or legal analysis or opinions about the Awami League or the government’s actions against the party,” the statement read.
Quoting sections from the notification, the CAO said: “All activities of the Awami League and its affiliated, associated and like-minded organisations have been banned.
“This includes a prohibition on carrying out publicity campaigns or organising processions, rallies, assemblies or conferences via media, online platforms, and social media.
“Over the past 15 years, particularly during last year’s (2024) student-led mass uprising, there have been ‘clear allegations’ against the Awami League and its affiliated organisations of attacks, enforced disappearances, killings, inhumane torture, criminal activities and crimes against humanity.”
It noted that numerous cases against leaders and activists of the party are under trial at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) and in regular criminal courts.
“Following the 5th of August, the Awami League and its affiliated groups have carried out attacks, provocations, and criminal acts targeting students and citizens who participated in the uprising,” the statement said.
It added that these actions aimed “to obstruct the judicial process, incite panic among the public and destabilise national security”.
The government highlighted that the party's actions have instilled fear in the plaintiffs and witnesses, raising concerns about the disruption of justice and the law-and-order situation in the country.
