Awami League cannot contest elections if ban is not lifted: Election Commissioner

PNN News Desk | Dhaka:

The participation of the Awami League in the upcoming national elections has become virtually uncertain. Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah stated that if the government’s ban on the party’s activities remains in force, it will not be able to contest in the elections.

At a press conference held on Wednesday at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka, he said:
“As a political party, the Awami League’s activities are currently suspended. Therefore, they cannot take part in any election using the party symbol.”

The Election Commission has recently approved the draft of the Representation of the People (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, which is set to be enacted through the Ministry of Law. According to the draft, even if a political party is not formally banned, if its activities are suspended by government decision, the party’s registration and symbol will also remain suspended.

In response to a question about whether the party’s leaders could contest as independent candidates, Commissioner Sanaullah said:
“This will depend on time. However, there will be no option to use the party’s symbol.”
The draft also includes a proposal to disqualify individuals who are officially declared as fugitives from participating in elections.

It may be noted that on May 12, through a gazette notification under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the government banned all activities of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations. According to the notification, the ban will remain in effect until the trial process at the International Crimes Tribunal is completed.

As a result, the party’s political activities, rallies, media campaigns, and use of social media are all under strict prohibition.