Awami League activities can resume anytime: Yunus

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has clarified that the Awami League has not been banned, nor has its registration been suspended. Only the party’s political activities have been temporarily halted, he said.

Speaking to GTO on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Dr. Yunus explained that the suspension prevents the party from engaging in political work for the time being. “They are a legitimate party, but their activities have been suspended temporarily. These activities can resume at any time,” he said.

On the question of whether the Awami League could participate in upcoming elections, Dr. Yunus said that the Election Commission is the authority to clarify which parties are eligible to contest. “They are conducting the election, so they are best placed to answer,” he added.

Dr. Yunus also addressed the party’s support base, noting that while he does not accept claims that the Awami League has millions of supporters, it does have backing among voters. “Its supporters, like all voters, will be able to vote, but the ballot will not feature only the Awami League symbol,” he said.

Criticizing the party’s record, Dr. Yunus said that although the Awami League calls itself a political party, it has failed to conduct itself accordingly. “They have committed killings and have not taken responsibility for their actions. Instead, they have often blamed others,” he said.

The interview also touched on the rationale for delaying national elections, the Rohingya crisis, and other pressing issues.