Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam criticized the ruling Awami League, saying, “The issue of holding national elections is entirely an internal matter of Bangladesh. We call on everyone to respect the sovereign will of our people.” He added, “Over 15 years of authoritarian rule, the Awami League has dismantled our democratic framework and compromised national sovereignty.” He called for the banning of the AL’s political activities to ensure national security and protect witnesses and plaintiffs in ICT cases. Shafiqul also said the current government is engaged in a reform process to restore the country’s democratic institutions.