US lawmakers have expressed concern about Bangladesh’s decision to ban the Awami League party ahead of elections scheduled for early 2026. They wrote to interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus urging inclusive, free, and fair elections. Lawmakers warned that banning an entire political party could undermine democratic rights and public confidence in institutions.

BulletsIn

•  US lawmakers concerned about total ban on Awami League in Bangladesh
•  Ban comes just before elections expected in early 2026
•  Letter sent to interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus
•  Lawmakers include Gregory Meeks, Bill Huizenga, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Julie Johnson, Tom Suozzi
•  They stress people deserve free, fair elections with full party participation
• Warn that suspending parties risks weakening democratic legitimacy
•  Cites past concerns that 2018 and 2024 polls were not fully free or fair
• Warn restarting flawed International Crimes Tribunal could further harm trust
• Emphasize freedom of association and individual accountability as core rights