The Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh Awami League has stepped up its campaign against the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government. The party has called for fresh nationwide protests after Yunus announced a referendum alongside national elections, a demand pushed by a hardline Islamist group.
The Awami League said it will hold demonstrations across Bangladesh on November 14 and 15, followed by a complete shutdown on November 16 and 17. The party vowed to continue the movement until Muhammad Yunus steps down.
Leaders claim the Dhaka lockdown on November 13 drew strong public participation. They described the quiet streets, closed shops, and thin traffic as signs of a broader national awakening against what they call an “illegitimate authority.”
Supporters say Sheikh Hasina’s recent interviews have energized party workers, especially in traditional strongholds. Protests have also intensified as the International Crimes Tribunal prepares to announce its verdict against Hasina on November 17. She has rejected all allegations and says foreign powers used the interim government to remove her.
The interim administration insists the protests failed. It also dismissed a viral video of Dhaka’s police chief calling for a shutdown, calling it AI-generated misinformation. Security forces have increased checkpoints and arrested several Awami League supporters over alleged sabotage.
