The government has formed a new commission to review allegations surrounding three controversial national elections held under the ousted Awami League government, with the aim of recommending measures to ensure fair elections in the future. The new commission has been constituted following the cancellation of an earlier committee formed to review the disputed elections. The deadline for submitting the commission’s report has been extended by one month.
The Cabinet Division issued a notification on Tuesday night regarding the formation of the new commission. Earlier, on June 26, a committee had been set up for the same purpose. According to the notification, the members of the committee and the commission remain unchanged. The only change made was the reformation of the body as a commission, with the scope of work remaining the same.
Initially, the committee was given the task of submitting its report by September 30. Now, the commission has been given a new deadline of October 31.
The notification further states that the three national parliamentary elections held in 2014, 2018, and 2024 have faced widespread criticism, both domestically and internationally. Allegations suggest that these elections were manipulated to ensure victory for a particular party, undermining the people’s right to vote through various tactics.
In light of this, the government has formed the commission under ‘The Commission of Inquiry Act, 1956’ to review the allegations raised in connection with these elections and recommend measures for the conduct of fair elections in the future.
Former High Court Division Judge Shamim Hasnain has been appointed the chairman of the commission. The other four members of the commission are: former Additional Secretary (Grade-1) Shamim Al Mamun, Associate Professor of the Law Department at Dhaka University Kazi Mahfuzul Haque (Supon), Advocate Barrister Tajrian Akram Hossain of the Dhaka District and Sessions Judge Court, and election expert Dr. Md. Abdul Alim.
Scope of the Commission’s Work
The commission will analyze reports raised by domestic and international observers, citizen organizations, and the media regarding the 2014, 2018, and 2024 national elections. It will examine allegations of corruption, irregularities, and criminal activities during these elections, as well as the impartiality and credibility of the processes. Expert opinions on these matters will also be gathered and analyzed.
The commission will also analyze the role of the then-ruling government in limiting political party participation and undermining the people’s right to vote. It will review the roles of all election-related institutions and organizations, as well as the involvement of law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
Additionally, the commission will investigate allegations of financial irregularities against the Election Commission at the time. Based on these analyses, it will assign responsibility and provide well-thought-out recommendations for future elections. If necessary, the commission will summon official documents and interrogate relevant individuals.
The commission has been given the authority to visit any location within the country, summon documents from any government office, and question any person suspected of involvement.
The Cabinet Division will provide administrative support to the commission, while the Bangladesh Election Commission will provide logistical and informational assistance.