DE News Desk :
Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka was blocked Friday afternoon as leaders and activists from the National Citizen Party (NCP), along with several allied political and student organisations, rallied to demand a formal ban on the Awami League (AL), citing its alleged involvement in authoritarian governance and acts of violence during the previous regime.
The blockade followed a rally held near the Minto Road entrance, close to the official residence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at State Guest House Jamuna.
From the rally, Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser of the NCP’s southern wing, announced the shift to Shahbagh, declaring that their demands were being ignored by the interim government.
“Our message has yet to reach the ears of the government. Until our demands are heard and acted upon, we will occupy Shahbagh,” Hasnat told attendees.
The protest movement intensified Thursday night after former President Md Abdul Hamid left the country for Thailand.
In response, NCP activists launched a sit-in outside the Chief Adviser’s residence, which transitioned into Friday’s larger demonstration.
The protest drew support from a coalition of Islamist and nationalist parties and student groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Islami Chhatra Shibir, Hefazat-e-Islam, the Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), and participants in the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
Following Jummah prayers, protesters erected a stage at the Minto Road junction and marched with placards and banners demanding Awami League’s de-registration as a political entity.
During the rally, Hasnat took direct aim at the former ruling party, stating: “Even if you gathered a hundred Pharaohs, you wouldn’t find one Hasina. How can this even be called a political party?”
He further claimed that Chief Adviser Yunus was exploring talks with political parties to reach consensus on banning the Awami League.
As the demonstration unfolded, the Chief Adviser’s Office issued a statement confirming that the government was engaging with political parties on the issue. “A decision will be made shortly after consultations,” it stated.
The statement also cited a recent United Nations report documenting alleged terrorist activities by Awami League leaders and affiliates during the July uprising.
The government urged all parties and the public to exercise patience while deliberations continue.
In response to earlier public pressure, the government has already declared the Bangladesh Chhatra League — the AL’s student wing — a terrorist organisation under current laws, the statement noted.
Additionally, the government is moving to amend the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act to enable prosecution of organisations accused of crimes against humanity.
Addressing growing public anger over former President Abdul Hamid’s overseas travel, the government acknowledged the discontent and reiterated its commitment to pursuing legal action against those implicated in criminal activities during the previous administration.