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Published : 09 May 2025, 12:43 AM
Hundreds of protesters are rallying outside Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus’s official residence, the State Guest House Jamuna, late into Thursday night, demanding a ban on the Awami League.
The demonstration followed a call by Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser of the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) southern unit, who announced a sit-in starting at 10pm via a Facebook post.
Police sealed off key roads leading to Jamuna, including Kakrail intersection, the InterContinental Dhaka crossing, and Mintu Road, allowing only pedestrian processions through the barricades while blocking all vehicles.
Around 1am, a procession led by NCP Convener Nahid Islam and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain joined the sit-in.
Armed police, detectives, and army personnel stood guard behind barricades, equipped with riot gear.
Leading chants at the protest, Hasnat declared the sit-in would continue until the government announces a clear roadmap for prosecuting the Awami League and banning its political activities.
His post quickly gained traction online, drawing 2,500 comments and 1,000 shares within 10 minutes—most in support, though some accused him of political theatrics.
Later that night, Nahid urged supporters on Facebook to “take to the streets” to demand justice, warning: “The decision on the Awami League will be made tonight.”
The protest comes amid growing agitation following former president Md Abdul Hamid’s departure and mounting pressure from student groups involved in the July Uprising.
Several police officers have already been transferred over alleged negligence during those events.
‘DECISION TONIGHT’
Later at night, Nahid also took to his personal Facebook account, urging everyone to take to the streets to demand a ban on the Awami League.
He wrote, “Everyone come out. I call on all forces of July, all families of martyrs and the injured to take to the streets. Our struggle will continue until justice is ensured.”
“We are witnessing clear hesitation in taking steps to try the ‘fascist’ and murderous Awami League. No decision has been made to revoke its registration or ban the party.
“The accused are being granted bail. The president of the illegitimate fascist government has been allowed to flee before our eyes.
“This has created a fundamental distrust towards the government on the question of justice.”
He added, “In July, we made a promise — justice for the murderers. And that Mujibists will never again be allowed to do politics on the soil of Bengal.
“The decision regarding the Awami League will be made tonight.”
The NCP leader warned that they would remain on the streets until a clear roadmap is announced for the trial of the Awami League, the cancellation of its registration, and a ban on its political activities.
