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Dhaka, May 9, 2025 :A sea of people flooded the streets of Dhaka on Friday, demanding the banning of the Awami League and justice for its leaders, as protests and rallies organized by the National Citizens Party (NCP) gained momentum. The demonstrations, which began after Juma prayers, saw participants from various parts of the capital converging in front of the InterContinental Hotel, chanting slogans and calling for an end to the Awami League’s political activities.
The rally, attended by members of various political parties, student organizations, and ordinary citizens, saw continuous processions joining the gathering throughout the day. Protesters raised slogans such as “Down with Awami League, Let Democracy Be Free” and “Ban Awami League,” reflecting widespread discontent with the party. A group of over fifty demonstrators also staged a sit-in outside the residence of the interim government’s Chief Adviser, continuing their protest into the evening.
Participants accused the Awami League of being a “genocidal party” responsible for destroying democracy and causing suffering during its tenure. “The Awami League has oppressed the people and suppressed democracy for years. We demand that the party and its affiliate organizations be banned immediately,” said a protester at the rally.
The protests follow a call by Hasnat Abdullah, a key organizer from the NCP’s southern region, who urged people from all walks of life to join the movement. The demonstrations began on Thursday night outside the Chief Adviser’s residence, Yamuna, and escalated on Friday with a massive gathering near Mintu Road’s water fountain after Juma prayers.
Security measures were heightened across the city, with law enforcement maintaining a vigilant presence to ensure order during the rallies and processions. Despite the tense atmosphere, no major incidents were reported.
The protests signal growing public and political pressure to hold the Awami League accountable for alleged atrocities and to prevent its return to the political arena. The movement has garnered support from various groups, reflecting a unified call for change in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
AI/MR
