Why the Government Suddenly Eased Passport Restrictions for Awami League Affiliates

Officials, judges, military officers, and many of their spouses—previously identified as “allies of the fascist regime”—have recently received government clearance to obtain passports. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued no-objection certificates (NOCs) for them, despite some being accused in the July killings and others under investigation by the International Crimes Tribunal. Several officials are also being probed for major financial irregularities by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Following the issuance of NOCs, many of them reportedly received passports quickly, and some are believed to have already left the country.