5-member committee formed to probe irregularities in last 3 national elections

The interim government has formed a five-member committee to investigate allegations of corruption, irregularities, and criminal activities surrounding the national parliamentary elections held in 2014, 2018, and 2024 under the Awami League-led administration.

The decision was announced through a gazette notification issued by the Cabinet Division today (26 June).

Former justice Shamim Hasnain will lead the committee as chairman, while the other members of the committee are former additional secretary Shamim Al Mamun, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Dhaka Kazi Mahfuzul Haque (Supon), Dhaka District and Sessions Judge Court lawyer Barrister Tajrian Akram Hossain, and election expert Md Abdul Alim.

According to the gazette notification, the committee has been formed to investigate the numerous allegations raised over the past three national elections and to develop recommendations for ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in the future.

The notification said the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections were marked by widespread criticism both domestically and internationally, with strong allegations that the electoral process was manipulated in favor of the ruling party through the suppression of voters' rights.

In light of these serious concerns, the interim government emphasised that this investigation aims to protect citizens' voting rights, uphold democratic values, and prevent the rise of authoritarian or fascist governance structures.

The committee will examine election observation reports from both local and international monitoring organisations, as well as statements from civil society groups and media investigations.

It will also analyse expert opinions to assess the impartiality and credibility of the three elections. 

Furthermore, the committee will scrutinise the actions of the then-ruling party and its influence in restricting the participation of opposition parties and obstructing voters' rights.

Additionally, the role of the Election Commission secretariat, civil administration, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services during the elections will be evaluated.

The committee will also investigate financial irregularities allegedly committed by the election commissions during the respective periods.

Based on its findings, the committee will identify those responsible for any irregularities or misconduct and will present specific recommendations for legal and institutional reforms to ensure future elections are transparent and fair.

These recommendations will include proposals for necessary changes to laws, election regulations, and administrative practices.

The committee has been given a deadline of 30 September 2025, to submit its final report to the government.

During the investigation, the Cabinet Division will provide secretarial support, while the EC will offer logistical and informational assistance.

The committee is also empowered to summon documents from any government office, interrogate individuals involved, and co-opt additional members if necessary to carry out its work effectively.