‘Ban Awami League’: Victims of July Uprising launch three-day protest in Dhaka

"The Awami League, responsible for atrocities in Pilkhana, Shapla, the anti-Modi protests, and most recently the July 2024 Movement, must be banned. They have no right to engage in politics," declared Md Imdad Hossain, a victim of the July Uprising, during a human chain protest at the National Press Club in Dhaka, today (7 May). 

The demonstration, organised by the political platform July Oikko, marked the launch of a three-day programme titled 'Ban Fascist Campaign', beginning tomorrow. 

The initiative brings together nearly 50 organisations that emerged from the July Movement, united in their demand for justice, accountability, and the permanent exclusion of the Awami League from Bangladesh's political landscape.

Moderated by AB Zubayer and Muntasir Mahmud, the event featured a formal announcement from platform leader Mosaddeq Ali Ibn Mohammad. "Our movement will continue until our demands are met. If necessary, we will be compelled to announce stricter programmes," he warned.

Criticising perceived leniency from the interim government, Mosaddeq also condemned statements suggesting a possible electoral return of the Awami League. "We are observing with concern that advisors are advocating for the rehabilitation of the Awami League. We strongly condemn such statements. How can Yunus suggest that the Awami League may contest the elections? Such remarks are a clear betrayal of the martyrs of July," he said.

The July Oikko's demands include constitutional protection for revolutionaries, a judicial investigation into the events surrounding the July Uprising, and an immediate ban on the Awami League's political activities.