The government has officially declared a ban on all political and organizational activities of the Bangladesh Awami League, including its affiliated and associated bodies, through a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs today, Monday. This decision has been taken under the authority of the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009, particularly Section 18(1), which empowers the state to take preventive measures against organizations allegedly involved in activities threatening public security.

According to the notification, the government has reasonably concluded that the Bangladesh Awami League and all its associated, affiliate, and fraternal organizations have been involved in various criminal acts and conspiracies similar to those committed by terrorist entities. These include actions intended to destabilize the state, undermine the functioning of governmental institutions, and spread fear among the public. The notification further adds that these organizations have engaged in unlawful activities and conspiracies that endanger national security.

The government states that, based on sufficient documentation and evidence, it believes that leaders and members of the Awami League and its various organizations have committed acts which warrant trial by the International Crimes Tribunal. Therefore, until the legal proceedings are completed and justice is served, it is deemed necessary to suspend all activities of these organizations in order to ensure peace, public safety, and the integrity of the justice process.

The notification also provides a historical reference, citing that from January 6, 2009—when the Awami League assumed power—until its removal on August 5, 2024, amid a mass uprising of students and civilians, the party and its affiliated groups allegedly established a reign of fear across the country. It accuses the organizations of carrying out systematic oppression against opposition parties, dissenters, and members of the public. These actions reportedly included forced disappearances, political killings, torture, unlawful detentions, and incidents of sexual violence, which the government characterizes as acts of political terror.

It further alleges that these offenses were not isolated incidents but part of a broader effort to suppress political dissent and create an atmosphere of intimidation. The government claims that it is in possession of credible and adequate evidence that supports these allegations, which justifies immediate and firm action in the interest of national security and the rule of law.

As a result, the notification prohibits the Awami League and all its affiliated bodies from engaging in any form of public activity or political expression. This includes publication of any material, presence in print or electronic media, online activity, and use of social media platforms. Furthermore, all rallies, processions, meetings, conferences, and any form of assembly under the banner of the Awami League or its allied organizations are strictly banned until further notice.

The decision marks a significant development in the country's political landscape, reflecting a shift in governmental approach toward handling political groups accused of crimes against the state and humanity. The government emphasized that the restrictions are temporary and will remain in effect until the conclusion of legal proceedings at the International Crimes Tribunal involving the accused parties.

In line with the provisions of the Anti-Terrorism framework, the state asserts that such measures are necessary to prevent any resurgence of political violence or unrest that could disrupt the ongoing judicial process. The government reiterated its commitment to upholding peace, ensuring justice for victims of past atrocities, and protecting the democratic rights of citizens under lawful and secure conditions.

This notification has already come into effect and is binding on all individuals and institutions concerned. Authorities have been instructed to ensure strict enforcement of this order and to take immediate action against any violations.