Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has categorically stated that his administration has no plans to ban the Awami League, although its leaders accused of grave crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will stand trial in the country’s courts.
Yunus made these remarks during a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna with a delegation led by Comfort Ero, president and chief executive of the International Crisis Group (ICG) on Thursday (20 March), said a press statement issued by the Chief Advisor’s Office.
Dismissing speculation of election delays, Yunus confirmed that the general elections will proceed on schedule. He outlined two possible electoral timelines: December 2025, if only minor political reforms are undertaken; June 2026, if broader structural reforms are deemed necessary.
“There is no reason to change our election schedule,” he stated, reinforcing the interim government’s commitment to a timely democratic transition.
Following the collapse of her government on 5 August 2024, ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India, prompting Bangladeshi authorities to initiate legal proceedings against her, along with several ex-ministers and senior police officials, for their alleged roles in the July Uprising.
Yunus told the ICG delegation that, based on the UN fact-finding mission’s report, the government may consider putting Awami League leaders on trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.
“It is still on the table,” Yunus said, leaving the option open for international legal action.
At the end of the meeting, Yunus expressed his desire to strengthen ties with India, while also criticising Indian media for spreading misinformation about Bangladesh.
The ICG delegation welcomed the arrest of Ataullah Abu Ammar Jununi, leader of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and urged greater engagement with the Arakan Army, which now holds significant influence over Myanmar’s Rakhine state.
Yunus assured the delegation that Dhaka remains committed to resolving the Rohingya refugee crisis, vowing to bring renewed international focus to the issue at an upcoming United Nations special conference.
Ero, the ICG president, pledged support in countering misinformation campaigns against the interim government, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to regional stability.
