The government has constituted a five-member committee to investigate allegations of different irregularities in the last three “controversial” national elections.
The committee has been asked to give suggestions for holding fair general elections in the future.
To this effect, the Cabinet Division issued a circular on Thursday.
“Three national parliamentary elections were held in Bangladesh in 2014, 2018, and 2024. These elections have been widely criticised both domestically and internationally. There are strong allegations that the ruling Awami League was brought to power through orchestrated processes by suppressing the people’s right to vote using various tactics,” it said.
Serious accusations have also been made against the election organisers for violating the constitutional obligation that mandates governance through elected representatives. These concerns have raised fears that the rule of law, democracy, and fundamental human rights in the country have been seriously undermined, it added.
It further said in this context, the interim government has decided to investigate the corruption, irregularities, and criminal activities that occurred during these elections, with the aim of ensuring people’s voting rights, safeguarding democracy, and preventing the threat of fascist and authoritarian rule in the future.
“For this purpose, the government has formed the committee in order to investigate allegations regarding the last three national parliamentary elections and make recommendations for conducting fair elections in the future.”
Former justice of the High Court Division Shamim Hasnain will head the investigation committee.
Other members include former additional secretary (Grade-1) Shamim Al Mamun, associate professor Kazi Mahfuzul Haque (Supon) of the Law Department, University of Dhaka.
Advocate Barrister Tajrian Akram Hossain of the Dhaka District and Sessions Judge Court, election expert Dr Md Abdul Alim.
The committee has been asked to submit a report to the government by September 30, 2025.