Wazed warns Awami League will block national election if political ban is not lifted
Sajeeb Wazed, the son and adviser of ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, on Sunday warned that supporters of the Awami League would block February’s national election if the suspension of the party is not reversed. He cautioned that escalating protests could turn violent if the political ban remains in place.
The warning comes just one day before a special tribunal delivers its verdict against the former prime minister on charges of crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 student-led uprising. The verdict—expected to convict Hasina—will be broadcast live across Bangladesh. Hasina maintains that the charges are fabricated and politically motivated.
Hasina in exile, under Indian protection, says Wazed
Hasina has lived in exile in Delhi since fleeing Bangladesh in August 2024. Wazed said India is providing her full security and treating her “like a head of state.”
Predicting a harsh judgement, Wazed said, “They’re televising it. They’re going to convict her, and they’ll probably sentence her to death… My mother is safe in India. India is giving her full security.”
He added that there would be no appeal unless a democratically elected government was formed with Awami League participation.
Government rejects allegations of political motivation
A spokesperson for the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus denied claims of political bias, asserting that the tribunal operated transparently with observers and regular documentation.
“The interim government regards any incitement to violence — especially by exiled political figures — as deeply irresponsible and reprehensible,” the spokesperson said.
The government reiterated that the Awami League remains barred from political activity due to “national security concerns,” and said there are no plans to reinstate its registration.
Awami League threatens election disruption
The Awami League’s registration was suspended in May, and its political activities were banned. Wazed said the party would not allow the upcoming election to proceed without its participation.
“We will not allow elections without the Awami League to go ahead,” he said. “The party will do whatever it takes.”
Wazed also warned that Bangladesh could see severe unrest without international intervention. “There’s going to be confrontations,” he said, pointing to nationwide shutdowns and intensifying street protests.
Heightened tensions in Dhaka ahead of verdict
Dhaka has been on high alert, with several crude bombs exploding across the capital on Sunday. Authorities reported 32 blasts on November 12 and multiple bus arson incidents.
Security forces have deployed more than 400 Border Guards, strengthened checkpoints, and restricted public gatherings in an effort to prevent escalation.
“You’re seeing shutdowns across the country, massive protests throughout the country, and they’re only going to get bigger,” Wazed warned.
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