Bangladesh is preparing for increased political violence as the banned Awami League party fights to maintain its political relevance against an interim government determined to exclude it from the upcoming elections and ongoing political reforms.
Political Exclusion Sparks Tensions
The interim regime has made it clear that the Awami League will not be permitted to participate in the next parliamentary polls. The party has been completely excluded from consultations regarding political reforms currently being implemented by the caretaker government. Despite this political isolation, the Awami League recognizes the urgent need to assert its political identity, setting the stage for potential confrontations.
This development follows the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government in August last year. Interestingly, the widespread demands for Hasina's trial and for bringing those responsible for July/August violence to justice did not initially include calls for banning the Awami League. The interim government's original agenda also did not feature a ban on the party.
Key Figures Voice Opposition to Ban
The interim government's stance hardened significantly following internal developments. Sakhawat Hossain, the home adviser appointed by the interim government, was removed from his position within just three days of appointment. His dismissal came after he made comments supportive of the Awami League's political rights.
The former election commissioner had publicly stated, "As a political party, organise yourselves. Participate in elections. If the people vote, go ahead." This moderate position proved unacceptable to the current administration.
Even Nahid Islam, who leads the newly formed student party National Citizens Party (NCP), indicated in a February 6 interview with Daily Prothom Alo that any "final decision on Awami League" would emerge from legal processes and trials rather than political flat.
Political Rivals Take Unexpected Stance
In a surprising development, neither the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) nor Jamaat-e-Islami supported calls for banning the Awami League. Both major political rivals maintained that a political party's ideology should be defeated electorally rather than through administrative bans.
This position from traditional opponents underscores the complex political dynamics at play. The consensus among established political entities appears to favor political competition over outright prohibition, creating a significant challenge for the interim government's current approach.
As Bangladesh navigates this delicate political transition, the exclusion of a major political party combined with its determination to remain relevant suggests increased political violence is likely in the coming months. The situation remains fluid with multiple stakeholders positioning themselves for what could become a prolonged political confrontation.
