In a landmark move aimed at restoring electoral integrity, the interim government of Bangladesh has constituted a five-member probe committee to investigate allegations of irregularities, corruption, and administrative misconduct in the 2014, 2018, and 2024 general elections. The decision, announced via a gazette notification, comes amid mounting domestic and international scrutiny over the credibility of past polls.
🧑⚖️ Committee Composition and Mandate
- Headed by former High Court Justice Shamim Hasnain
- Other members include:
- Shamim Al Mamun, former additional secretary
- Kazi Mahfuzul Haque, law professor at Dhaka University
- Barrister Tajriyaan Akram Hossain, legal expert
- Md Abdul Alim, election analyst
The panel is tasked with submitting its report by September 30, 2025, and will examine whether the then-ruling Awami League manipulated the electoral process to secure victories by suppressing voter rights.
🔍 Scope of Investigation
The committee will:
- Review reports from election observers, civil society, and media
- Assess the role of election commissions, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies
- Investigate financial irregularities and administrative bias
- Recommend legal and institutional reforms to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in the future
It also has the authority to summon documents, interrogate individuals, and co-opt additional members if needed.
⚖️ Political and Legal Implications
The probe marks the first formal investigation into national election misconduct since Bangladesh’s independence. The 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections were widely criticized for being “staged”, with accusations of voter suppression, opposition exclusion, and state machinery misuse.
“This initiative aims to safeguard democracy and prevent the rise of authoritarianism,” the gazette stated.
📌 Why It Matters
- Signals a paradigm shift in electoral accountability
- Could reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of future elections
- Reflects growing demand for transparency and democratic reform
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