TIB disappointed as review body seeks repeal of key ordinances

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep disappointment over a government-led parliamentary review committee’s recommendation to drop two ordinances aimed at strengthening judicial independence.

In a press release on Friday, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman also voiced concern over the committee’s call to suspend the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance under the guise of review.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman urged lawmakers to table the ordinances in their original form in Parliament and involve relevant stakeholders in reviewing the 16 ordinances proposed for suspension before enacting them.

TIB noted that the interim government’s ordinances, intended to bolster the country’s democratic and institutional foundations, were already few, and suspending them could further weaken progress. Key ordinances include the Supreme Court Judges Appointment Ordinance, the Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance, and the Human Rights Commission Ordinance.

Questioning the rationale behind the proposed repeals, the TIB chief warned that such moves could undermine judicial independence and create uncertainty over the establishment of an effective human rights body.

He highlighted that without a functional Human Rights Commission, an independent judiciary, and safeguards against enforced disappearances, citizens’ rights could be severely affected.

Referring to past governance, Dr Iftekharuzzaman urged political parties to learn from history and promptly place the ordinances before Parliament for approval.

He also called for revisions to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Ordinance to ensure full independence, including an independent selection and review committee, and for corruption in the private sector to be covered under the law.

Regarding the Police Commission Ordinance, he said it must be reformed to ensure a neutral and people-friendly police force. The Right to Information (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, should also be revised before being tabled in Parliament.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman stressed that all ordinances, including those recommended for suspension, must be reviewed with experts and stakeholders and enacted into law without delay.