Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League banned in Bangladesh

Bangladesh's interim government has banned the Awami League, the party of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, pending a trial over its violent suppression of mass protests in July 2024, which reportedly left up to 1,400 dead, according to the UN, AFP reported. 

Hasina, currently in self-imposed exile in India, faces an arrest warrant from Dhaka for alleged crimes against humanity. Government advisor Asif Nazrul confirmed the party’s activities, including online, are suspended under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the trial concludes.

Nazrul said the decision was taken to ensure the country's "sovereignty and security" and "the security of the protesters" along with safeguarding "the plaintiffs and the witnesses of the tribunal."

Bangladesh's interim leader, Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, has led an interim government since Hasina was overthrown.

Yunus's administration also approved an amendment to the country's International Crimes Tribunal Act, allowing authorities to prosecute political parties and their affiliated bodies.

The Awami League rejected the administration´s move, calling it "illegitimate."

The ban comes a day after thousands of people rallied outside Yunus's residence, demanding a ban on Hasina's party.

On Thursday, former Awami League leader Abdul Hamid, also under investigation, successfully left the country.

At least three police officers responsible for overseeing airport arrivals and departures have been dismissed for negligence in the wake of Hamid's departure, officials said.