The Demand to Ban Bangladesh Awami League as a party

Awami League flag

Dear Editor,

I am writing to highlight the growing demand from the National Citizens' Party (NCP) to ban the Bangladesh Awami League due to its alleged long history of authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and failure to uphold democratic values. The party’s rule from 2009 until its fall on August 5, 2024 has been marked by severe human rights violations, including forced disappearances of political opponents and indiscriminate violence against protesters. The July-August 2024 movement alone reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 2,000 demonstrators, with over 20,000 others injured due to use of excessive force.

In addition, historical allegations against the Awami League further strengthen calls for accountability. It is claimed that during its rule immediately after Bangladesh’s liberation in 1971, the party orchestrated the extrajudicial killings of 30,000 opposition workers and subjected many others to enforced disappearances. Furthermore, it is accused of mismanaging the 1974 famine, which led to the deaths of several hundred thousand people due to the government’s inability or unwillingness to ensure adequate food distribution.

The demand to ban the Awami League is grounded in precedent: fascist parties in Italy and Germany were dismantled, and their leaders held accountable for crimes against democracy and human rights. Given the alleged atrocities attributed to the Awami League, its continued presence in Bangladesh’s political landscape raises serious concerns about justice and democratic integrity.

Several political parties support this demand, while leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) argue that such a decision falls under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission and the Interim Government. While procedural considerations are important, the fundamental issue remains: can a party accused of systemic violence and human rights abuses continue to function within a democratic framework?

As Bangladesh moves forward, it is imperative that these concerns be addressed to ensure accountability and uphold democratic principles. I urge policymakers, legal experts, and the public to engage in meaningful discourse on this issue and take appropriate action to safeguard the nation’s future.

Sincerely, 

Md. Nurul Hassan

Section 1, Mirpur

Dhaka.