To investigate allegations of irregularities, corruption and administrative involvement surrounding the national elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024 and to formulate recommendations for ensuring fair elections in the future, the interim government has formed a high-level committee.
A gazette notification in this regard was issued by the Cabinet Division on Thursday.
The committee is chaired by former justice of the High Court Division, Shamim Hasnain.
Other members include former additional secretary Shamim Al Mamun, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Dhaka Quazi Mahfujul Hoque Supan, Advocate Barrister of the District and Sessions Judge Court Tajriyaan Akram Hussain and Election Expert Dr Md Abdul Alim.
According to the notification, Bangladesh held three general elections in 2014, 2018 and 2024, all of which faced widespread criticism both domestically and internationally.
Serious allegations have been made that these elections were manipulated to secure victories for the ruling Awami League by systematically depriving citizens of their voting rights.
The notification further states that these elections gave rise to grave concerns over violations of the constitutional obligation to govern through elected representatives.
As a result, the rule of law, democracy, and fundamental human rights in the country were reportedly undermined.
In light of these concerns, the interim government has decided to investigate the corruption, irregularities and criminal activities reported in these elections to ensure the protection of voting rights, safeguard democracy and counter threats of authoritarianism and fascism.
Accordingly, the government has constituted a committee to examine the allegations related to the last three general elections and to recommend measures to ensure fair elections in the future.
As part of its terms of reference, the committee will analyze reports from election observers, domestic and international monitoring bodies, civil society organizations, and media regarding the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections.
It will also collect and review expert opinions on the overall integrity and acceptability of these elections.
The committee will assess the role of the then-ruling party and associated entities in restricting political participation and obstructing the exercise of voting rights, evaluate the functions of the Election Commissions, their secretariats, and the administration during those elections, and examine the roles played by law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
Additionally, it will investigate financial irregularities reportedly committed by the respective Election Commissions and determine accountability for the irregularities observed in those elections.
Based on its findings, the committee will provide recommendations regarding necessary reforms in laws, regulations, the role of the Election Commission, and administrative arrangements to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in the future.
As per the gazette, the committee is required to submit its report to the government by September 30.
The Cabinet Division will provide secretarial support to the committee in carrying out its investigation, while the Election Commission will offer logistical and informational assistance.
The committee may also summon documents from any office and interrogate relevant individuals, and if necessary, co-opt additional members to support the investigation.
