Awami League Denounces February Polls, Calls Yunus Government Illegal

Political tensions in Bangladesh escalated dramatically on December 12, 2024, as the Awami League (AL) rejected the interim government’s announcement of national elections set for February 12. The party, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accused the administration of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus of operating illegally and described it as “fascist.” This development marks a significant intensification of the political crisis that began when Hasina fled the country in response to widespread student protests in August 2024.

In Dhaka, the interim government revealed the election schedule during a time of heightened scrutiny. Approximately 128 million voters are eligible to participate in these elections. However, the Awami League, which has seen its registration suspended and activities banned, asserts that it is barred from contesting. This situation has led the party to label the upcoming elections as meaningless, arguing that a fair electoral process cannot occur under the current conditions.

The Awami League issued a statement expressing deep concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process. It stated, “The Bangladesh Awami League has reviewed the election schedule announced by the illegal, occupying, killer-fascist Yunus clique’s illegal Election Commission. Under their control, it is impossible to ensure a fair and normal environment where transparency, neutrality, and the people’s will can be reflected.”

In light of the situation, the party reiterated its demands for Yunus to resign and emphasized that conducting elections without the participation of the Awami League, a party that played a pivotal role in the country’s Liberation War, would only exacerbate the crisis. The AL declared that it possesses the strength and resolve to confront the current administration, warning that the exclusion of the Awami League from the electoral process would lead to further instability.

The Awami League is calling for the lifting of all restrictions imposed on its operations. It has requested the withdrawal of what it describes as “fabricated cases” against Hasina and other party leaders, as well as the unconditional release of political prisoners. Furthermore, it demands that the interim government be replaced with a “neutral caretaker government” to facilitate a free and participatory election.

The intensifying standoff has raised alarm across the region. In response, the Awami League has announced a series of nationwide protests, including demonstrations following Friday prayers on December 12 and a planned morning-and-evening lockdown on December 13. The party aims to rally support for what it terms a “people’s mandate-based” political resolution.

As Bangladesh navigates this political turmoil, the international community watches closely, with concerns about the implications for stability and governance in the country. The developments surrounding the February elections are poised to shape the future political landscape of Bangladesh significantly.