Bangladesh’s Interim Government has no plans to ban the Awami League, but individuals within its leadership accused of crimes, such as murder and crimes against humanity, will be held accountable and face trial in the country’s courts, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Thursday.
During a meeting with a delegation from the International Crisis Group, led by Comfort Ero, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus confirmed that the government has set two possible timelines for the upcoming elections. He reassured the group that the election dates would remain unchanged.
Professor Yunus also mentioned that the possibility of referring Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague remains on the table, particularly in light of a UN fact-finding mission’s report on potential crimes linked to the July uprising. “It is very much on the table,” Yunus stated, emphasizing the Interim Government’s commitment to accountability.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to holding elections as planned, Yunus stated that the vote would proceed as scheduled, regardless of any demands. If political parties request only limited reforms before the election, the vote will take place in December. However, if a more comprehensive reform package is sought, the elections will be held in June of the following year. “We have no reason to change the election dates,” he added, emphasizing that the process would be free and fair. He also shared that the Consensus Building Commission has begun talks with political parties, and efforts are underway to finalize and sign the July Charter, which will serve as a guiding framework for government policies in the near future.
The statement also noted that the International Crisis Group delegation praised the arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah earlier this week, recognizing it as a sign of the Interim Government’s dedication to peace and stability in the refugee camps.
The delegation urged greater engagement with the Arakan Army, which controls much of Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Professor Yunus acknowledged these concerns, stating that Bangladesh is working to mobilize humanitarian aid for the Rohingya refugees. He expressed hope that the upcoming special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis would draw more international attention to the ongoing humanitarian challenges.
Comfort Ero expressed her group’s support for Bangladesh in combating misinformation targeting the country and its Interim Government. In conclusion, Professor Yunus reiterated Bangladesh’s desire for strong relations with India but noted that much of the misinformation campaign against Bangladesh has originated from Indian media.
