Muslim Brotherhood seeks to capitalize on the political opportunity in Bangladesh

On August 1, 2024, the Bangladesh government officially banned Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Chhatra Shibir, designating them as terrorist organizations under Section 18/1 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009.

This decision, confirmed by a notification from the Public Security Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, follows years of allegations and legal actions against the group.

The government accused the party of instigating violent protests that resulted in the deaths of over 300 people and injuries to thousands more. The protests were sparked by a quota system for government jobs.

Jamaat-e-Islami was founded by Sayyid Abul A’la Maududi, a figure associated with the Muslim Brotherhood. Its activities have been controversial since Bangladesh's independence. The organization was initially banned by the first government led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for collaborating with Pakistani forces during the 1971 Liberation War. 

Jamaat members were implicated in forming auxiliary forces such as Razakar, Al-Badr, Al-Shams, and the Peace Committee, which were involved in atrocities against Bengali freedom fighters

In 2013, the Election Commission of Bangladesh canceled Jamaat’s registration following a court ruling, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court's Appellate Division in 2023. 

The latest ban follows recommendations from the law ministry and a decision by the 14-party alliance, led by the Awami League, amidst accusations of Jamaat's involvement in violence surrounding the quota reform movement.