Dr. Sheikh Hafizur Rahman Karzon, a law professor at University of Dhaka, has strongly criticized any legal move to ban the Bangladesh Awami League, calling it a “self-destructive decision” with serious long-term consequences.
He made these remarks while speaking on a television talk show titled “Manchitra,” hosted by journalist Manjurul Alam Panna. Discussing the current political situation and the issue of banning political parties, Dr. Karzon stated, “The politics of the Awami League will not vanish. It will return even stronger—ten to fifty times more powerful.”
During the program, he elaborated on Bangladesh’s political culture, geopolitical realities, and the potential negative impact of banning a major political party. He argued that there is no meaningful precedent anywhere in the world where a political party representing a significant portion of the population—around 40 percent in this case—has been eliminated through executive orders or legal action.
According to him, the Awami League is not just a political party; it has deep social, cultural, and intellectual roots. “Such an organization cannot simply be uprooted at will,” he said.
Dr. Karzon also warned that banning political parties could create a dangerous cycle of retaliation in Bangladesh’s politics. “If a party is banned today under a certain legal framework, future governments may use the same law to ban their opponents. This will trap the country in a recurring cycle of prohibition and political revenge,” he cautioned.
Responding to a question about whether such a law would survive judicial scrutiny, he expressed doubt. Referring to the Constitution of Bangladesh, he noted that any law conflicting with fundamental rights would ultimately be struck down by the higher courts. “If this law is challenged, I believe it will not stand,” he said.
He also criticized the current government, warning against impulsive and emotionally driven decisions after assuming power. According to him, such actions often prove counterproductive and ultimately harm those who take them.
Highlighting the broader geopolitical context, Dr. Karzon claimed that Bangladesh is currently in a vulnerable position. He suggested that global geopolitical actors often prefer governments that align with their strategic interests. In this context, he also remarked that the leadership of Sheikh Hasina should be evaluated for its approach to national interest and sovereignty.
Dr. Karzon concluded by urging policymakers to act responsibly and cautiously, emphasizing that the country’s future depends on thoughtful and balanced political decision-making.
