Dhaka: Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, Shafiqul Alam, today announced that the people of the country have expressed a collective ‘sigh of relief’ following the ban on the activities of the Awami League (AL), indicating widespread acceptance of the decision.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Press Secretary emphasized that the current interim government is a government of the people, contrasting it with the Awami League’s past actions, which allegedly deprived citizens of their voting rights. The ban was imposed due to the AL’s violations of human rights and its role in disenfranchising the populace.
Speaking at a ‘Meet the Press’ event at the Sagar-Runi auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity, Shafiqul stated that the AL had restricted the rights of the country’s citizens. He noted that the decision to ban the AL’s activities was made in consultation with all parties involved in the mass uprising.
Shafiqul also addressed the UN report, which cited the death of approximately 1,400 people during last year’s uprising. He claimed the actual figure is higher, and pointed out that AL members showed no remorse, having labeled dissenters as ‘militants’. The ban has since brought a sense of comfort to the people of Bangladesh.
The Press Secretary also highlighted the need for journalists’ unions to advocate for better rights and facilities for media workers. He criticized the unions for focusing on acquiring plots in Purbachal over the past 15 years rather than serving the interests of journalists. He also stressed the importance of improving journalists’ salaries to enhance their living standards and uphold the dignity of the profession.
DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mynul Hossain Sohel were present at the event, among others.