Dhaka, Monday, 20 October 2025 – Election Commissioner Md Anwarul Islam Sarker has declared that the Awami League cannot participate in Bangladesh polls due to the ongoing legal suspension of its activities. This announcement came during a press interaction in Sylhet on Sunday, where he addressed police training for election duties. This ruling underscores shifts in Bangladesh’s political dynamics, potentially influencing alliances and voter turnout across South Asia, where stable governance in Dhaka impacts regional trade and security ties.
Background on Bangladesh EC Awami League Ban
The Bangladesh EC Awami League ban traces back to May 2025. On 10 May 2025, the interim government under Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus issued a notification banning all activities of the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This move targeted the party amid ongoing trials at the International Crimes Tribunal for alleged crimes during the 2024 student-led protests against job quotas, which resulted in hundreds of deaths and the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on 5 August 2024.
Sheikh Hasina, who led the Awami League to power in 2009 and secured subsequent terms, fled to India following the unrest. The interim administration cited national security threats and the need for accountability in justifying the ban. The order prohibited rallies, conferences, and other political engagements by the Awami League and its affiliates until the tribunal’s proceedings conclude.
In response, Awami League officials rejected the decision, stating on their social media: “The people of Bangladesh are shocked and outraged by the illegal and unconstitutional occupying fascist Yunus government’s announcement to ban the activities of the Awami League.” They vowed to continue operations, calling the interim government undemocratic.
Awami League Barred from Next Elections: Official Confirmation
Two days after the home ministry’s notification, on 12 May 2025, the Bangladesh Election Commission acted swiftly. Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed announced: “We have suspended Bangladesh Awami League registration as a political party in line with the home ministry notification.” This suspension effectively ensures the Awami League cannot participate in Bangladesh polls, as registration is mandatory under the Representation of the People Order to contest elections.
The commission removed the party’s iconic boat symbol from its official list of registered parties and symbols. Without registration, the Awami League barred from next elections cannot field candidates or use its traditional emblem, which has symbolised the party since its founding in 1949 as a key player in Bangladesh’s independence struggle.
Election laws in Bangladesh require parties to maintain active registration to engage in polls. The suspension aligns with constitutional provisions and electoral rules, as emphasised by Commissioner Sarker in his recent statement. He noted that the legal framework governs such decisions, including symbols for other parties like the National Citizen Party.
Reasons Behind the Suspension
The Bangladesh EC Awami League ban stems from allegations of terrorism and human rights violations during the 2024 quota reform movement. Protests began in July 2024 over a 30% job quota for freedom fighters’ descendants, perceived as favouring Awami League supporters. Clashes escalated, leading to over 600 reported deaths, according to human rights groups.
The International Crimes Tribunal, established in 2009 under Hasina’s government to probe 1971 war crimes, was repurposed to investigate these events. Charges against Awami League leaders include murder, enforced disappearances, and excessive force. The interim government argued that allowing the party to operate posed risks to public order.
India, a close neighbour, expressed concern over the ban. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on 13 May 2025: “The ban on the Awami League without due process is a concerning development. As a democracy, India is naturally concerned at curtailment of democratic freedoms and shrinking political space.” He advocated for early, free, and inclusive elections in Bangladesh.
Impact on Bangladesh’s Political Landscape
The decision that the Awami League cannot participate in Bangladesh polls alters the electoral field. The party, which won 223 seats in the 2024 parliament elections amid opposition boycotts, has dominated politics for 15 years. Its absence could empower rivals like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by Khaleda Zia, and emerging groups such as the National Citizen Party.
Analysts predict fragmented alliances and increased voter polarisation. In South Asia, this could affect bilateral relations, particularly with India, where Hasina maintained strong ties. Trade agreements and border security pacts might face scrutiny under a new government.
Commissioner Sarker highlighted efforts for fair polls, stating: “The elections will be held before Ramadan. There will be no more controversial elections like in the past. A fair and participatory election will be held with the cooperation of everyone.” He added that the commission would exclude controversial personnel from duties to ensure integrity.
Police training, as inaugurated in Sylhet, focuses on maintaining law and order. With over 170 million people, Bangladesh’s elections involve massive logistics, including 42,000 polling centres and electronic voting machines in select areas.
What’s Next
As preparations advance, the Awami League barred from next elections faces legal challenges to lift the suspension. Party insiders indicate plans to appeal the ban, arguing it violates democratic principles. The tribunal’s timeline remains unclear, potentially delaying resolution.
The interim government has pledged reforms, including electoral changes for inclusivity. Elections are expected by early 2026, before Ramadan begins on 18 March. International observers, including from the Commonwealth and SAARC, may monitor to ensure transparency.
This development reinforces that the Awami League cannot participate in Bangladesh polls unless the ban is revoked, setting the stage for a transformed political era.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, October 20th, 2025
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