Bangladesh has reportedly issued a nationwide security alert ahead of the anniversary of the founding of the Awami League, the party led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, amid fears that its supporters will try to organize demonstrations across the country.
This alert comes ahead of June 23, the anniversary of the formation of the Awami League. The party was dissolved by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus after the overthrow of the Hasina government on 5 August 2024, following the student-led protests known as the July Uprising.
Interior Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said in a press conference on Saturday that intelligence agencies had indicated the possibility of unrest on the anniversary.
“We have intelligence information that the Awami League may try to create unrest and instability in the country by June 23,” Ahmed was quoted as saying by ANI news agency.
The report added that law enforcement agencies have been instructed to remain on high alert during the coming days and to take all necessary measures to prevent acts of sabotage, disturbances, or any attempts to disturb public order.
The minister added that the authorities are closely monitoring developments. He also said that the current administration no longer considers the Awami League as a political party and instead views it as a “mafia organisation”.
Police fear clashes due to anniversary events
In an internal message distributed to field offices on Friday, the police headquarters warned that Awami League leaders and activists may try to mark the anniversary by hoisting party flags at local offices and organizing processions carrying banners.
According to the report cited by ANI, such activities can lead to confrontations with members of rival political groups, especially activists of the student-led National Citizen Party.
Police officials warned that any such clashes may worsen the law and order situation in different parts of the country.
Despite the warning, Dhaka Metropolitan Police said there was no specific security threat at the moment, although officers remained on high alert.
There is no official announcement from Awami League
The Awami League did not issue any public statement about the anniversary plans through its official online platforms.
The Awami League, founded in 1949, is the oldest political party in Bangladesh and played a major role in the country’s liberation war against Pakistan in 1971.
The political landscape in Bangladesh has transformed dramatically since Hasina’s removal from power.
The interim administration banned the Awami League from running in the elections held in February. The elections brought the Bangladesh Nationalist Party to power, with Tariq Rahman sworn in as Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
(with ANI inputs)
