According to details published on the website of British legal chambers Matrix Chambers, Hasina sent a written communication to UN special rapporteurs expressing serious concerns over the continued restrictions on the party.
The communication states that the ban was initially imposed by Bangladesh’s interim administration and was subsequently maintained and formalised by the government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), headed by Tarique Rahman.
Hasina argues that excluding the Awami League from elections has deprived a significant section of the population of political representation and undermined the democratic process.
The party was barred from participating in the February 2026 elections, according to the communication. Hasina maintains that excluding a major political party raises questions about whether the electoral process was free, fair and inclusive.
The letter also highlights concerns about the ability of Awami League members and supporters to challenge the ban through Bangladesh’s courts. It alleges that the restrictions and attacks on party supporters have made it difficult to secure legal representation and pursue judicial remedies.
Hasina has called on UN human rights experts to address the issue and support efforts to ensure that all political groups can participate in Bangladesh’s democratic process.