Dozens of activists from Bangladesh's Awami League were arrested on Tuesday as the party observed its founding anniversary, defying a government ban on political gatherings. The arrests took place across multiple districts, including Dhaka, as police cracked down on unauthorized assemblies.
Defiance amid crackdown
On the eve of the anniversary, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is in exile, posted on social media: 'We were not born to be defeated.' The statement rallied party supporters despite the ban imposed by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
According to police reports, at least 50 party members were detained in the capital alone for attempting to hold a rally. Similar arrests were reported in Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Khulna. Authorities cited a government order prohibiting political activities until further notice.
Background of the ban
The interim government banned the Awami League in May 2026, accusing it of corruption and inciting unrest during the 2024 protests that ousted Hasina. The party has been operating underground since then.
Party leaders condemned the arrests, calling them politically motivated. 'The government is trying to crush our democratic rights,' said a senior Awami League official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
International reaction
Human rights groups have expressed concern over the crackdown. Amnesty International called for the release of detainees, urging Bangladesh to uphold freedom of assembly.
The US State Department also voiced concern, stating that peaceful political expression must be protected. Bangladesh's foreign ministry defended the arrests, saying they were necessary to maintain public order.
