Dhaka — Allegations have surfaced that the interim government has violated fundamental principles of election-time neutrality. A recent directive issued by a government department explicitly calls on field-level officials and employees to actively ensure a “Yes Vote,” a move analysts say directly contradicts Bangladesh’s election laws and code of conduct.
Directive Calls for Administrative Mobilisation
According to the official document, administrative officials at the division, district, and upazila levels have been instructed to organize meetings, publicity campaigns, and coordinated initiatives to build public awareness and secure support for the Fifteenth Amendment–2025. The directive also mentions the use of educational institutions, government offices, and local administrative structures for campaign-related activities.
In Conflict with Election Laws and Code of Conduct
Legal experts argue that such actions clearly violate the National Parliamentary Election Code of Conduct, 2008. Under Clause 5(b) of the Code, government officials and employees are prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in any form of election campaigning. Additionally, Clause 6 explicitly bans the use of government facilities, offices, vehicles, or manpower for campaign purposes.
Furthermore, Section 91E(a) of the Representation of the People Order (RPO), 1972 defines the misuse of state authority to influence voters as a punishable offense.
Experts also point to Article 126 of the Constitution of Bangladesh, which mandates that all executive authorities must assist the Election Commission in the conduct of elections. Once the election schedule is announced, the government is legally bound to act strictly under the directives of the Election Commission and refrain from any activity that could compromise electoral neutrality.
Higher Legal Threshold for an Interim Government
Former election officials note that these obligations are even more stringent for an interim government, whose primary mandate is to ensure administrative neutrality and facilitate a free, fair, and credible election.
A former Election Commissioner, speaking on condition of anonymity, said,
“Mobilizing government officials to secure a ‘Yes Vote’ during an election period is a blatant violation of the Code of Conduct and the RPO. BIt undermines administrative neutrality and challenges the authority of the Election Commission.”
Political Parties Cry ‘Abuse of State Machinery’
Opposition political parties have condemned the directive, calling it a clear case of “abuse of state machinery.” They allege that the interim government has crossed constitutional boundaries by attempting to align the administrative apparatus with a specific political and policy agenda.
Civil Society Warns of Rights Violations
Civil rights activists warn that such actions threaten citizens’ fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and voting rights as guaranteed under Articles 31 and 32 of the Constitution.
Silence from Election Commission Raises Concerns
The Bangladesh Election Commission has yet to issue an official response regarding the directive. However, election observers caution that failure to promptly investigate and address the allegations could severely undermine the credibility and public trust in the electoral process.
