No ban on Awami League, Only activities temporarily halted: Prof Yunus

Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated, “We have not banned the Awami League. Their registration has not been suspended either. Only their activities have been temporarily halted.”

He made these remarks in response to journalist Mehdi Hasan’s questions during an interview with GTO on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.

The chief advisor explained, “Awami League’s activities have been suspended, they party cannot engage in any political actions.’

He said, “They remain a legitimate party, but their activities have been paused for a certain period. Their activities may be resumed at any time.”

In response to another question, Dr. Yunus said, “The Election Commission can clarify whether the Awami League can participate in the elections. Since they oversee the electoral process, they are the best authority to decide which parties may participate.”

He also added, “I do not agree that the Awami League has millions of supporters, but they do have supporters. Their supporters will be able to vote like any other ordinary voters. However, the Awami League’s symbol will not appear on the ballot.”

The interview, published on September 29, also discussed topics such as the justification for delaying the national election and the Rohingya crisis.