Bangladesh's oldest political party, led by Sheikh Hasina. Ruled for 16 years before being ousted by a massive uprising in August 2024. In May 2025 the interim government banned the party from political activity through an amendment to an anti-terror law, citing "national security" concerns. In theory the ruling is temporary, pending court cases that might take years. Human Rights Watch has accused the interim government of "arbitrarily" targeting Awami supporters in a way that "mirrors the previous government's abusive clampdown on political opponents". The party claims 24 members or supporters have been killed in custody since the revolution. Despite the ban, the Awami League remains the first choice of 14% of decided voters, almost certainly an undercount. A senior official, Mohammad Arafat, insists half the country still sympathises with the party.
The eagle may soar, but the weasel never gets sucked into a jet engine.