Bangladesh press secretary Shafiqul Alam declared on Monday there is no possibility of an Awami League return to power through upcoming national elections. He emphasised that no democratic country would permit a party led by a convicted criminal to participate in political activities.
Alam made the remarks when asked about prospects for an Awami League comeback in the polls scheduled for February 12, 2026. “This party leader is a fugitive from justice, sentenced to death for crimes against humanity, and is calling for terrorist attacks against Bangladesh,” he said, referring to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
The statement reinforces the interim government’s position on the Awami League amid preparations for the country’s first major vote since the 2024 uprising.
Press Secretary Awami League Stance Clarified
Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, told United News of Bangladesh (UNB) that no democratic nation would allow an organisation headed by such a figure to engage in politics, let alone contest elections.
His comments directly address speculation about interim government Awami League relations ahead of the vote. The Election Commission announced the schedule last week, setting simultaneous parliamentary elections and a referendum on constitutional reforms.
Nomination papers must be submitted by December 29, with scrutiny occurring from December 30 to January 4. Candidates may withdraw until January 20, and campaigning runs from January 22 until 48 hours before polling begins.
Background: Awami League Fall from Power
The Awami League dominated Bangladesh politics for 15 years under Sheikh Hasina until mass protests in July and August 2024 forced her to flee to India. The student-led movement, later called the Monsoon Revolution, ended her government’s authoritarian rule.
An interim government under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took office in August 2024, promising reforms and fair elections. In November 2025, the International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina in absentia to death for crimes against humanity related to the crackdown on protesters.
The verdict has further diminished prospects for an Awami League comeback. Party activities face restrictions, and many leaders remain in exile or detention.
Interim Government Awami League Policy
The press secretary Awami League remarks align with broader interim government policy. Officials have consistently stated that individuals responsible for past abuses cannot lead political organisations.
This approach aims to ensure the February elections reflect a break from previous governance. Other parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), prepare to contest, though challenges remain in restoring full political stability.
Regional observers note the decision impacts South Asian dynamics, particularly Bangladesh-India relations strained by Hasina’s exile.
What’s Next after Awami League Return to Power
The February 12 vote combines parliamentary elections with a referendum on the July National Charter Implementation Order 2025. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin announced the schedule in a televised address.
Overseas Bangladeshis will vote via postal ballots for the first time. The interim government views the polls as a milestone in transitioning to elected rule after 18 years without a fully contested non-partisan election.
Analysts expect high turnout, though security concerns persist amid occasional violence linked to political tensions.
As Bangladesh approaches this critical juncture, the possibility of an Awami League return to power appears firmly closed under current conditions.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 16th, 2025
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