Bangladesh Lifts Ban on Jamaat-e-Islami

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has lifted the ban on the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party imposed by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The move comes after Hasina's controversial tenure, marked by violent protests and accusations of authoritarianism. The party still must register for elections.

Bangladesh's interim government, helmed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has rescinded the ban on the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami party, a prohibition initially instituted by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The ban was originally imposed due to allegations that the party incited chaos over a government job quota system, which led to nationwide protests and significant casualties.

The Ministry of Home Affairs' decision comes amid efforts to restore political stability, although the party will still need to register with the Election Commission to participate in upcoming elections. The Jamaat-e-Islami has faced severe restrictions since 2013 due to its opposition to secularism, as stipulated by Bangladesh's constitution.

This development follows a period of intense political turmoil and criticism of Hasina's administration for alleged authoritarian tactics and human rights abuses. Hasina's government had previously arrested thousands of opposition members and faced condemnation for using excessive force against protesters. The Jamaat-e-Islami's history and its controversial role during the 1971 war of independence continue to influence its current political standing.

(With inputs from agencies.)