Those responsible for July Killings should not be allowed in politics: Press Secretary

The Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor, Shafiqul Alam, has firmly stated that the individuals who were involved in the killings during the July-August student protests should not have any right to participate in politics. 

He made these remarks at a discussion held at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka on Tuesday.

During the event, Alam said, “Those involved in the indiscriminate shooting and killing during the student and public protests in July and August do not have the right to engage in politics. Discussions are ongoing about the proclamation of the July Revolution. Once we have a consensus, the proclamation will be announced.”

It was back on August 5, following intense student-led protests, that Awami League President Sheikh Hasina stepped down from her role as Prime Minister and left the country. 

Since the government‍‍`s downfall, many Awami League leaders and activists have gone into hiding. 

Meanwhile, the interim government has already banned the Awami League‍‍`s student wing, the Bangladesh Chhatra League, accusing them of repressing protesters during the movement.

Anti-discrimination student activists are now pushing for a complete ban on the Awami League itself, but this demand has not yet gained full support from other major political parties, including the BNP.

Shafiqul Alam further mentioned that the national parliamentary elections might take place in December, but this depends on whether political parties can come to an agreement. 

“If they demand reforms, the elections might be delayed by another six months,” he added.

Earlier, the Chief Advisor, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, indicated that the next parliamentary elections could either happen in December of this year or in mid-2026. 

During a meeting with British MP Rupa Huq on January 4 at the state guest house Jamuna, he shared these possibilities.

When Rupa Huq asked about the election timeline, Dr. Yunus replied that there are two potential dates: one in December this year and the other in mid-2026. 

He said, “The date depends on how much reform the people are looking for.”