### US Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Awami League Ban Ahead of Bangladesh Elections As Bangladesh approaches its general elections scheduled for February 2026, a group of US lawmakers has expressed significant concerns regarding the interim government's ban on the Awami League party, led by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This ban, implemented in May 2025, has raised alarms about the potential for undermining democratic processes and the integrity of the upcoming elections. The lawmakers argue that restricting a major political party could lead to political instability and diminish the credibility of the electoral process in Bangladesh, which is already facing scrutiny from international observers for past elections deemed unfair [https://www.timesnownews.com/videos/times-now/world/bangladesh-elections-us-lawmakers-flag-awami-league-ban-write-to-yunus-on-fair-elections-video-153342245][https://theprint.in/diplomacy/us-representatives-decry-bangladeshs-ban-on-awami-league-urge-free-fair-polls/2811882]. ### Structure of Concerns Raised by US Lawmakers 1. **Political Exclusion**: The ban on the Awami League raises fears of political exclusion, which could lead to a lack of representation for a significant portion of the Bangladeshi populace [https://www.siasat.com/us-lawmakers-express-concern-over-ban-of-awami-league-in-bangladesh-3315743]. 2. **Impact on Election Credibility**: Lawmakers warn that the ban could severely undermine the credibility of the elections, echoing concerns about previous elections that were criticized for not being free or fair [https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/us-lawmakers-flag-concerns-over-awami-league-ban-warn-it-could-undermine-bangladesh-s-february-elections-article-13740733.html]. 3. **Call for Fair Processes**: The US representatives have urged the interim government to ensure that all political parties can participate in the electoral process, emphasizing the need for a fair and inclusive democratic transition [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3740543-us-lawmakers-urge-free-elections-amid-bangladesh-political-ban]. 4. **Concerns Over Political Violence**: The letter from US lawmakers also highlights the potential for increased political violence and unrest, calling for accountability and adherence to democratic values [https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/us-lawmakers-flag-risks-bangladesh-elections-276]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Political Party Ban**: The Awami League has been completely banned from political activities since May 2025, which has raised significant concerns among US lawmakers [https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-lawmakers-express-concern-over-total-ban-of-bangladeshs-awami-league-party/article70432559.ece]. - **Historical Context**: Previous elections in Bangladesh have faced criticism from international observers for lacking fairness, which adds to the urgency of the current situation [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/3740412-us-lawmakers-urge-bangladesh-for-fair-elections-amid-political-turmoil]. - **International Response**: The US lawmakers' letter reflects a broader concern about the state of democracy in Bangladesh, with calls for a return to inclusive governance and respect for political rights [https://lokmarg.com/us-lawmakers-warn-bangladesh-against-party-bans-flawed-tribunal-ahead-of-polls]. ### Conclusion: Urgent Call for Democratic Integrity in Bangladesh In summary, the US lawmakers' concerns regarding the ban on the Awami League highlight critical issues surrounding the upcoming elections in Bangladesh. The following points encapsulate the situation: 1. **Political Exclusion Risks**: The ban on a major political party threatens to exclude significant voices from the electoral process, undermining democratic representation. 2. **Credibility of Elections at Stake**: There is a strong warning that the credibility of the February elections could be severely compromised if the ban continues. 3. **Need for Fair Processes**: Lawmakers emphasize the necessity for an inclusive electoral process that allows all political parties to participate, reflecting the will of the Bangladeshi people. 4. **Historical Context of Violence**: The potential for political violence and unrest is a pressing concern, necessitating accountability and adherence to democratic norms. The situation in Bangladesh remains precarious, and the international community, particularly the US, is closely monitoring developments as the country approaches this pivotal electoral moment [https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/us-lawmakers-warn-bangladesh-against-party-bans-flawed-tribunal-ahead-of-polls20251224091043].