Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the residence of Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka on May 9, 2025, demanding a ban on the Awami League, the political party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The protest, led by the newly formed National Citizen’s Party, follows Hasina’s exile in India after her government was toppled in August 2024 amid student-led mass protests.
Background & Protest Demands
- Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh after crowds stormed her palace in 2024.
- Protesters accuse Hasina of suppressing democracy and manipulating elections.
- The Awami League is under investigation for crimes against humanity, with UN reports documenting up to 1,400 deaths during a July 2024 crackdown.
- Former Awami League leader Abdul Hamid left Bangladesh on May 8, raising concerns about delayed justice.
Government Response
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has stated that it is seriously considering the demand to ban the Awami League. Officials are reviewing UN-documented evidence of alleged atrocities committed by the party and its affiliates.
Political & Security Implications
The protest marks a major shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape, with student-led movements continuing to shape governance. Security forces have allowed demonstrators to assemble, signaling a change in approach compared to past crackdowns.
