Awami League activities banned under Anti-Terrorism Act

DHAKA: Amid ongoing demonstrations by NCP supporters and certain Islamic parties, the council of advisers, in a special meeting on Saturday, decided to ban all activities of the Awami League - including in cyberspace - under the Anti-Terrorism Act, until the trial of the Bangladesh Awami League and its leaders in the International Crimes Tribunal is completed.

Briefing reporters, law adviser Asif Nazrul said the decision was taken to protect the security and sovereignty of the country, the safety of leaders and activists of the July Movement, and the protection of plaintiffs and witnesses involved in the ICT.

The relevant circular will be issued on the next working day, he added after the marathon meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.

The meeting also approved an amendment to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act. According to the amendment, the ICTs will be empowered to punish any political party and its affiliates.