A fresh wave of political tension has gripped Bangladesh following the passage of a controversial bill in the national parliament to ban the Bangladesh Awami League. The move has triggered widespread criticism and احتجاج across the country, with social media—particularly Facebook—flooded with reactions from citizens expressing anger and defiance.
Amid this charged atmosphere, former diplomat and profile writer Harun Al Rashid made a significant political declaration. Currently associated with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Rabat, Morocco as a former Ambassador and Head of Mission, he announced on his official Facebook account:
“Today, April 8, 2026, I formally declare my joining as an active member of the Bangladesh Awami League, expressing my full allegiance to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.”
His statement has quickly gone viral, sparking intense discussion across political and public spheres.
At the same time, thousands of social media users have taken to Facebook to protest the parliamentary decision. Many declared themselves “proud members of the banned Awami League,” framing the development as an attack on the spirit of Bangladesh’s Liberation War and democratic values.
In an official statement, the Bangladesh Awami League strongly condemned the move, calling it a “dark and disgraceful chapter” in the history of the national parliament. The party alleged that the parliament, formed through what it described as a controversial election, had disregarded democratic norms and values by targeting a historic political organization that led the country’s independence movement.
The statement further emphasized that such a decision is not merely an action against a single political party, but a direct blow to democracy, political pluralism, and the fundamental rights of the people. It warned that such steps could push the country toward authoritarianism and undermine the legacy of its hard-earned independence.
The Awami League also reiterated its belief that no political force can be suppressed if it continues to enjoy public support. It argued that repression, bans, or misuse of legal instruments cannot bring lasting solutions, but instead deepen division and instability within society.
In this context, the party called upon all pro-democracy forces, political groups, civil society members, professionals, and the youth to unite in defense of democratic rights, freedom of expression, and the rule of law.
Concluding its statement, the party asserted:
“The victory of the people and democracy is inevitable. Inspired by history and strengthened by our convictions, we will continue our আন্দোলন and struggle.”
