Law amendment paves way for ‘Election Commission Service’, expands EC’s authority
A significant amendment to the Election Officers (Special Provisions) Act, 1991 has granted Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) sweeping new powers — including primacy over the government in case of disputes and enhanced authority to discipline election officials.
The revised law, which clears the path for the formal establishment of an “Election Commission Service”, redefines the scope of who qualifies as an “election officer” — now encompassing not only returning and presiding officers, but any individual assigned election-related duties. This includes assistant presiding officers, polling staff, and even members of law enforcement agencies tasked with maintaining order at polling stations.
Key provisions of the amendment:
Primacy of the EC: In the event of any disagreement between the government and the Election Commission regarding the interpretation or implementation of this law, the EC’s decision shall prevail.
Disciplinary Powers: The EC may now recommend disciplinary action — including removal, dismissal, compulsory retirement, demotion, or suspension of promotion or salary increments — against any ministry or departmental officer serving as an election officer. Such sanctions may remain in effect for up to two years.
Temporary Suspension: For proven misconduct, an election officer may be temporarily suspended for a maximum of two months, with such orders deemed valid under the officer’s existing service rules.
Mandatory Implementation & Reporting: Government authorities must implement the EC’s recommendations within one month and formally notify the Commission. All actions taken must be recorded in the officer’s personal file, job book, and Annual Confidential Report (ACR), and included in their official dossier.
A step toward electoral accountability?
Election analyst Abdul Alim welcomed the reform, telling Jago News: “Through this amendment, the authority of the Election Commission has been significantly strengthened. It now has the power to hold officials accountable for irregularities — a critical step toward ensuring free and fair elections. The Reform Commission had long advocated for such measures. This is a very positive move by the government.”
The amendment is widely seen as a structural shift aimed at insulating election administration from political interference — and institutionalising the EC’s autonomy in managing electoral conduct and personnel.
With the legal foundation now in place, observers anticipate the formal rollout of the Election Commission Service — a dedicated cadre of officials answerable directly to the EC — in the near future.