Political change and trials after the July 2024 uprisingCEFR A2
7 Apr 2026
Adapted from Abhimanyu Bandyopadhyay, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Bornil Amin, Unsplash
In July 2024 a large student-led rebellion changed politics in Bangladesh. The prime minister was removed on 5 August 2024, and thousands linked to the Awami League left the country. Some sought asylum in India, the UK and the US.
In May 2025 the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus banned the Awami League under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The former home minister left Bangladesh the same day and is now in Kolkata. On 17 November 2025 a tribunal sentenced him to death for crimes said to be linked to the July uprising.
After nearly nineteen months underground he gave an in-person interview and criticised the recent election and the legal process. He asked for a fair judicial hearing.
Difficult words
- rebellion — A group action against the government.
- interim — Temporary; serving for a short time.
- asylum — Protection in another country for safety.
- tribunal — A special court that decides on cases.
- sentence — Officially declare a punishment for a crime.sentenced
- uprising — A public protest or small rebellion.
- criticise — Say that something or someone is wrong.criticised
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might people leave their country after a political change?
- What does a fair judicial hearing mean to you?
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