AL activities stay banned as Anti-Terrorism bill passed in parliament

The Jatiya Sangsad on Wednesday (April 8) passed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2026, keeping restrictions on the Bangladesh Awami League’s activities in place.

The bill formalises amendments to ordinances issued by the interim government, including the Anti-Terrorism Ordinance of May 11, 2025.

Under these provisions, sections 18 and 20 of the 2009 Anti-Terrorism Act were amended to prohibit the activities of the Awami League (AL) and its affiliated organisations.

In October 2024, Bangladesh Chhatra League was also banned under the same law.

The restrictions bar the party from holding rallies, meetings, or conferences, operating party offices, issuing statements, running media campaigns, or using social media.

Additionally, Party bank accounts will also remain frozen.

The ban will stay in effect until the completion of trials at the International Crimes Tribunal.