Three Awami League Leaders Granted Bail

After nearly nine months in custody, three prominent local leaders of the Bangladesh Awami League and its affiliated bodies have been granted bail in politically sensitive cases in Barishal.

On Tuesday, 17 February, the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court in Barishal approved bail for former Member of Parliament Jebunnesa Afroz, who represented the Barishal Sadar constituency and serves as Vice-President of the Barishal Metropolitan unit of the Awami League. The same order extended bail to Mahmudul Haque Khan Mamun, Joint Convener of the Barishal Metropolitan unit of Jubo League, and Jasim Uddin, former President of the Metropolitan unit of Chhatra League and former Vice-Chairman of Sadar Upazila Parishad.

Court Proceedings and Conditions

According to court sources, defence counsel argued that the accused had been in prolonged detention, that investigative progress had been limited, and that the individuals possessed fixed residential addresses and established social standing. The prosecution opposed the bail petitions. However, after reviewing the case records, the court granted bail subject to conditions.

Each of the accused has been instructed to submit a bond of a specified amount and provide sureties. The court further directed that they must not attempt to influence witnesses or interfere with the ongoing investigation. Officials confirmed that the three will be released from Barishal Central Jail once the requisite procedural formalities are completed.

Background to the Arrests

Jebunnesa Afroz was arrested on 17 May 2025 from her residence in Dhaka by members of the Detective Branch of police. In the aftermath of political unrest following the so-called “July Movement”, she was subsequently shown arrested in at least six separate cases filed in Barishal. Law enforcement sources indicated that the charges include allegations of sabotage, obstruction of public officials in the discharge of their duties, and activities deemed prejudicial to public order.

Since her arrest, she had remained incarcerated in Barishal Central Jail. The other two leaders were also detained in connection with related political cases arising from the same period of instability.

Profiles of the Accused Granted Bail

Political Implications

Political analysts suggest that the release on bail of such high-profile figures may alter the dynamics of local politics in Barishal, particularly within the organisational structures of the Awami League and its associate wings. Their re-emergence—albeit under legal scrutiny—could revitalise party activities in both the metropolitan and Sadar upazila areas.

Nevertheless, as judicial proceedings remain ongoing, the cases are expected to continue attracting attention in both legal and political spheres. Observers note that while bail restores provisional liberty, it does not constitute an acquittal, and the final outcome will depend upon the evidentiary findings and due process of the courts.