The party’s political program, beginning February 1, demands the withdrawal of legal cases against Hasina and calls for an end to attacks on religious minorities. The protests, however, face logistical challenges as many party leaders are in hiding due to fears of legal action.
The Awami League in Bangladesh has announced a series of political protests in response to what it calls “false cases” against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the ongoing persecution of religious minorities in the country. The party released a statement on Tuesday outlining a detailed protest schedule, which includes a nationwide general strike (hartal) and a blockade, starting from February 1. The protests will kick off with leaflets distribution, followed by a march and rally on February 6, a second rally on February 10, and a blockade on February 16. The general strike will take place on February 18.
The Awami League has warned that stricter actions will follow if the government obstructs their activities, asserting that these protests are a fight for the political and democratic rights of the people. The main demands include the withdrawal of legal cases against Hasina, particularly a “false murder case,” and the dismissal of other cases in what the party calls an “illegal ICT Tribunal.” The party also seeks an end to what it describes as a “farcical trial.”
In addition to these legal demands, the Awami League has framed its movement as a response to the violence and persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh. The party has cited attacks on Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, as well as vandalism of religious shrines, as key reasons for their protests. They are also demanding that the government stop the killings and ensure the safety of all citizens.
This marks the Awami League’s first significant street mobilisation since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2025. However, with many party leaders and workers currently in hiding due to legal threats and attacks, the scale and success of the protests remain uncertain.
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