Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul today stated that existing laws, including the Anti-Terrorism Act, present no legal impediment to banning the Awami League (AL).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Nazrul, who is also a law professor, expressed that there is consensus among advisers regarding potential actions against the Awami League. He emphasized that while opinions may vary on the methods, legal frameworks such as the Anti-Terrorism Act can facilitate the banning of the party. He mentioned that the ICT Act could be amended swiftly if necessary, indicating that legal avenues are available.
Dr. Nazrul further elaborated on the legal process, noting that if political parties advocate for the Awami League's ban and trial courts issue relevant judgments, the ban could be legally enforced. He clarified his role in the Advisory Council, stating that he supported the inclusion of a provision to ban organizations in the ICT Act, specifically to enable actions against the Awami League. He urged against attributing blame to him or other advisers for their roles in council discussions.
Addressing the issue of former president Abdul Hamid, Dr. Nazrul clarified that preventing Hamid, who is accused in a murder case, from leaving the country was the responsibility of police and intelligence agencies, not his ministry. He noted that airport security and travel restrictions do not fall under judicial responsibilities, which are within his ministry's purview.