Interim govt affirms AL ban notice does not limit political commentary

The interim government has affirmed that the conditions of the ban notification on Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act does not limit freedom of expression or political commentary on the former ruling party. 

In a statement issued yesterday, the government clarified, "This notification does not infringe upon the freedom of expression of any other political party or individuals holding differing opinions. Constructive, logical, or lawful analysis or commentary on the Awami League, its activities, or government actions related to the party are not restricted by this notification."

Earlier, President Mohammed Shahabuddin promulgated an ordinance amending the Anti-Terrorism Act, prohibiting any form of publicity, including press statements, social media content, or public gatherings in support of any individuals or entities tried in the act, which ends such activities stemming from the Awami League.  

The notification stated that all activities by the AL and its affiliates will remain banned "until the trial of the leaders and activists of Bangladesh Awami League and all its subsidiary organisations, associate organisations and fraternal organisations is completed at the International Crimes Tribunal."

The ban covers all activities, including any kind of publication, campaign on media, online and social media, procession, meeting, gathering, conference, etc.

The latest developments come two days after the interim government decided to ban all activities of Awami League, including cyberspace, under the Anti Terrorism Act until the trial of the party and its leaders in the face of protests led by the National Citizen Party (NCP).

The government statement further said, over the past 15 years, especially during the 2024 July uprising, theAwami League faced specific allegations of attacks, enforced disappearances, and crimes against humanity. 

Numerous cases related to these alleged crimes are currently under trial in the International Crimes Tribunal and in various criminal courts of the country against the leaders and activists of these organisations, it added. 

Since 5 August 2024, in an attempt to obstruct these trials, spread fear among the public, and endanger public security, the Awami League and these organisations have allegedly carried out criminal activities, including attacks and incitement against the student-public involved in the uprising, the statement further said. 

"These actions have particularly instilled fear in the plaintiffs and witnesses involved in the ongoing cases and raised concerns over potential disruptions to the justice process and law and order in the country. In this context, the notification was issued yesterday," the statement clarified.