Information Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman today said there is no scope for the banned Awami League to carry out political activities whether it is by itself or under the name of another outfit.
The prime ministerial adviser for information and broadcast also warned that the government could consider action against Bangladeshi media outlets if they continue to broadcast statements by ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina in violation of court orders.
Referring to discussions about a "refined Awami League", Zahed said the party cannot organise programmes under any name while the ban remains in force.
"We sometimes see discussions about a 'refined Awami League' in various places, especially on social media. As long as Awami League's programmes are banned, they cannot hold any programmes under any name -- whether it is 'refined', a new Awami League, or Trinamool Awami League," he said while responding to questions from journalists at a weekly press briefing at the Secretariat.
Whether the Awami League will be permanently banned is a matter for the courts to decide, he added. "Until then, the government believes its programmes should remain banned."
As regards publishing or broadcasting Sheikh Hasina's speeches, Zahed said that while people in Bangladesh can access international news, local media must comply with court directives.
"It is inappropriate to broadcast her statements until the court lifts the ban. I hope our media will act responsibly. Sheikh Hasina's speeches are directly under a court ban in Bangladesh, yet many media outlets are still broadcasting them. This means they are defying court orders," he said.
The government would formally notify the media outlets concerned, he added.
"At some point, we might have to think about taking action."
Probe into Arabic-script flags
Replying to another question, Zahed said the government is investigating the motive behind the display of flags bearing Arabic script.
"I won't give too many details, but the government has taken note of this. There is a risk that this could send a wrong message internationally, and we are aware of it," he said.
"We intend to take action on this, and I have personally brought this to the attention of the home ministry. We hope this trend will not continue."
He said the widespread nature of the incidents suggested there could be a coordinated plan behind them.
"You can guess who is doing this and why. You might see some people talking about it on social media, but they may not be the actual masterminds. So, this needs a proper investigation."
Principal Information Officer of the Press Information Department Syed Abdal Ahmad was also present at the briefing.
