Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has clarified that the Awami League (AL) has neither been banned nor had its registration suspended. Only the party’s political activities have been temporarily halted.
Speaking to GTO during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, Dr. Yunus explained that the suspension means the party cannot carry out any political activities for the time being.
“They remain a legally recognized party, but their activities have been suspended temporarily. Their operations can be reactivated at any time,” he said.
Responding to a question about the Awami League’s participation in upcoming elections, Dr. Yunus noted that the Election Commission is the appropriate authority to determine which parties can contest. “Since the commission organizes the elections, they are the best authority to clarify this,” he added.
Dr. Yunus also addressed claims about the party’s support base. While he acknowledged that the Awami League does have supporters, he said their millions of supporters narrative is exaggerated. Supporters, like other voters, will be able to cast their votes, but the Awami League’s symbol will not be the only option on the ballot.
He further criticized the party, saying, “Although they call themselves a political party, they have failed to act like one. They have been involved in killings and have never taken responsibility for their actions. Instead, they have always blamed others for their conduct.”
The interview, published on September 29, also touched on issues including the rationale for delaying the national elections and the ongoing Rohingya crisis.
