Bangladesh’s interim government has banned all activities of the Awami League, the political party of deposed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act, citing national security concerns.

Bangladesh will ban the former ruling Awami League party under anti-terrorism law, the nation’s chief advisory office said in a statement, citing national security and the need to protect witnesses in criminal trials.

Bangladesh interim government on Saturday has taken a decision to ban Awami League, the oldest political party in the country.Bangladesh interim government bans Awami LeagueThe press release further clarified that the decision was made to safeguard national security and sovereignty.