Prime Minister's Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday said the Awami League will be able to resume its political activities if the court ultimately decides not to ban the party after the ongoing judicial process.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Press Information Department (PID) conference room at the Secretariat, he urged supporters of the party, which faces a ban on its activities, to wait until the investigations are completed.
"Our home minister has said and it was informed from the International Crimes Tribunal that investigations are underway. They should wait until that process is completed," he said.
"If the court ultimately decides that the party will not be banned, and I repeat that this is entirely within the jurisdiction of the court, after hearing all parties, then they will be able to resume their political activities," the adviser added.
He said the Awami League itself has not been banned, although its political activities remain suspended.
Responding to a separate question, Zahed said the government will raise with India the issue of provocative statements being made by fugitive AL leaders while staying there.
“Many of those leaders are accused in various criminal cases and are facing arrest warrants, while some have already been convicted. They are supposed to be handed over to us, let alone making any statements. We are regularly raising this matter at the state level and will continue to do so,” he said.
"I agree with your observation that they are carrying out these activities while staying in India. From the state's perspective, we have raised this issue before and we will continue to do so," the adviser said, referring to provocative statements made on social media by Awami League leaders, including Jahangir Kabir Nanak and Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya, who are staying in India.
Replying to another question regarding what he described as misinformation surrounding recent incidents near the Turag River, he said some deaths had occurred there, calling them "very unfortunate" and incidents that "should not have happened."
Zahed said the government will investigate whether anyone was involved in those incidents, which is part of its normal responsibility.
"However, you have seen investigative reports by both local and foreign organisations that clearly indicate the individuals were trying to flee, and the incidents occurred in that context," he said.
The adviser said the government values the lives of all citizens, including those who still support the Awami League. "We consider it unfortunate. Those who still support the Awami League or attempt to hold its processions are citizens of this country, and their lives are also valuable. We urge everyone to obey the law of the land," the adviser said.