Consensus reached on EC selection reform

Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, has announced a “historic turning point” in ongoing political dialogue, following a breakthrough agreement on reforms to the structure and appointment process of the Election Commission.

The announcement came after the 18th session of the second phase of political discussions held on Wednesday at the Foreign Service Academy, where representatives from various political parties and coalitions met to deliberate on appointments to several key constitutional and statutory bodies. These include the Election Commission, Public Service Commission, Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Ombudsman.

Speaking after the meeting, Professor Riaz confirmed that political parties had reached a consensus on reforming the constitutional provisions that govern the formation of the Election Commission. He praised party representatives for demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to move beyond previous hardline positions in the interest of institutional reform. “This consensus represents a major step towards establishing an independent and effective Election Commission,” he said. “On behalf of the Commission, I commend all political parties for their constructive engagement and cooperation.”

Under the newly agreed framework, the Election Commission will continue to comprise a Chief Election Commissioner and additional Election Commissioners, as prescribed by law. A central feature of the reform involves an amendment to Article 118 of the Constitution to introduce a structured and representative selection committee for appointments.

According to the proposal, the selection committee will be chaired by the Speaker of the National Parliament and will include the Deputy Speaker (from the opposition), the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and one Justice from the Appellate Division, nominated by the Chief Justice.

The committee will begin the process of identifying suitable candidates 90 days before the expiry of the incumbent Commission’s term. The qualifications, disqualifications, nomination procedures, and selection criteria will be defined in law, to be enacted by Parliament.

Following a transparent vetting process, the selection committee will submit unanimous recommendations for the posts of Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners to the President, who will formally appoint them for a five-year term.

Administrative and institutional support for the selection process will be provided by the Parliament Secretariat, operating under the supervision of the Speaker. While clauses 2, 4, 5(a), and 6 of Article 118 will remain intact, a new provision will be introduced under clause 5 to ensure the Commission functions within a clearly defined legal and ethical framework, with accountability to Parliament.

Professor Riaz also expressed optimism about concluding the broader political negotiations in the near future. “We remain committed to finalising a comprehensive National Charter, grounded in the spirit of consensus achieved thus far. Our goal is to reach an agreement before the end of July,” he added.

The reforms are being widely viewed as a significant development in Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, ensure electoral integrity, and enhance public confidence in key state bodies. If implemented, the new framework would mark a notable shift towards greater transparency, inclusivity, and parliamentary oversight in the country’s electoral process.

News Courtesy:

New Nation | July 23, 2025