DHAKA, April 10: The Bangladesh Awami League has raised strong concerns over the actions of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government, warning that recent political measures are undermining democratic norms and threatening the country’s political stability.
The party argues that policies continued from the former interim government led by Muhammad Yunus are damaging Bangladesh’s democratic culture and creating an unhealthy political environment.
A central point of criticism is a recent parliamentary bill that effectively bans the Awami League, based on an ordinance issued in 2025 during the Yunus-led interim administration.
The Awami League accused the BNP of implementing measures it had previously opposed, calling it a “betrayal of the people” and alleging that an “illegal and fascist directive” has now been turned into law.
The party insisted that banning a politically popular organisation is undemocratic and cannot replace genuine public support.
The statement also condemned the arrest of former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, describing her detention as unjust, prolonged, and accompanied by alleged mistreatment.
The party called her arrest a “staged drama” and said it reflects an attack on honest political activity.
Further, the Awami League alleged widespread repression of its leaders and activists, claiming that state institutions are being used for political persecution.
It cited cases of arrests, killings of party members in Chattogram, and the filing of what it described as fabricated cases.
The party also accused authorities of engaging in harassment and extortion through legal processes.
Prominent incidents mentioned include the arrest of Safura Begum Rumi and the deaths of local leaders such as Mohammad Shamim and Alal Sheikh.
The Awami League said these actions demonstrate an escalating crackdown on opposition voices.
Calling for an immediate change in approach, the party urged the government to restore a fair and democratic political environment.
It warned that continued repression could lead to public backlash, stating that citizens may ultimately “determine their own path to liberation” if democratic rights are not protected. (IANS)
