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In a strong statement at a shadow parliament organized by Debate for Democracy, Attorney General Advocate Md. Asaduzzaman labeled the Awami League a “banned entity” and vowed to bring individuals directly or indirectly associated with it under the purview of the law. The event, held on Saturday to discuss the realization of the July Movement’s spirit, saw the Attorney General condemn mob violence as contrary to the movement’s core principles. Speaking as the chief guest, Md. Asaduzzaman emphasized that mob violence is unacceptable and threatens the country’s democratic achievements. “Mob violence goes against the essence of the July Movement,” he said, warning that its persistence could derail Bangladesh’s democratic progress. He further noted that individuals convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity would be barred from participating in elections. The tribunal also has jurisdiction to prosecute organizations linked to such crimes, he added, referring to the Awami League as a “banned entity.” Those found complicit in its activities, directly or indirectly, will face legal consequences, he asserted.
Addressing political differences, the Attorney General stated that while disagreements among political parties exist, they are not irreconcilable and can be resolved through dialogue. He stressed that all parties remain united against fascism. Reflecting on the past 17 years, Md. Asaduzzaman described mob violence as an expression of public frustration over injustices, including the loss of loved ones and systemic irregularities. However, he reiterated that such actions are unacceptable and detrimental to the July Movement’s goals. Citing the mob violence against former Chief Election Commissioner Nurul Huda, he warned that continued unrest could jeopardize the nation’s hard-won gains, urging citizens to demand justice through legal means instead. In his remarks, Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron held the Awami League accountable for the July killings, asserting that every death during the movement occurred with the consent of fugitive former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He accused the Awami League government of committing heinous acts over the past 15 years, including enforced disappearances, murders, torture cells, and “mirror rooms” for oppression, branding these actions unforgivable. Kiron described Sheikh Hasina as a “tyrannical, ruthless, and vile murderer,” the “ambassador of autocracy,” and the “godmother of fascism,” noting that she is only the second figure in the subcontinent’s 700-year history to flee the country due to public outrage. Kiron further stated that Sheikh Hasina and her associates have lost political and social legitimacy in Bangladesh following their escape amid public anger. He predicted that, if convicted for the July killings, Sheikh Hasina and many Awami League leaders would lose their eligibility to contest elections. He argued that national elections could be credible even without the Awami League’s participation. Highlighting the July Movement as a historic milestone akin to the Liberation War, Kiron called for unity among pro-July forces to prevent the resurgence of fascism. Emphasizing the July Movement’s role in shaping an inclusive and humane state, Kiron urged political forces—excluding the Awami League and its allies—to unite to ensure no fascist regime emerges again. He warned that delays in holding elections could allow defeated forces to regroup, underscoring that the July uprising proved the people are the true owners of the nation. “No fascist can remain in power by depriving the people,” he said, citing Sheikh Hasina’s flight as evidence. Kiron cautioned future governments to prioritize the people, avoid murder and disappearances, and refrain from ruling through authoritarian tactics reminiscent of the one-party BAKSAL system. The shadow parliament, themed “The Role of Civil Society in Realizing the Spirit of the July Movement,” saw Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University’s debaters defeat Daffodil International University’s team. The competition was judged by Professor Abu Muhammad Rais, Deputy Secretary Rokeya Parvin Jui, development communication expert Dr. S.M. Morshed, and journalists Hasan Jabed and Ahmed Sarwar. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participants. The event underscored the need for unity and vigilance to safeguard Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations and prevent the return of authoritarianism.
