Dhaka: The interim government today released a comprehensive booklet detailing the sector-specific reform initiatives it has embarked on since assuming power last year. The document serves as a dynamic framework, indicating ongoing reforms and the potential for future initiatives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the booklet highlights key areas undergoing transformation, including infrastructure sectors such as power and railways. It also encompasses reforms in the electoral system, justice system, public financial management, information and communication technology, and critical social issues like gender violence and child protection.
The government’s efforts extend to enhancing education, particularly technical and vocational education and training (TVET), along with initiatives in social protection, labor rights, migration, human rights, youth promotion, and public administration. These sectors are integral to the reform strategies aimed at holistic development.
In the realm of electoral reforms, the government has drafted a National Parliament Constituency Delimitation ordinance, which has secured approval from the Council of Advisers. Efforts are also underway to amend the Representation of the People Order (RPO), with the draft currently under review by the Election Commission. This includes organizing the accreditation process for both domestic and international election observers.
The justice sector reforms involve the establishment of a Supreme Judicial Appointment Council, chaired by the Chief Justice, to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments in the higher judiciary. Additionally, a proposed Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance is under review, aiming to grant the judiciary financial and institutional autonomy by removing dual executive-judicial control over lower courts.
Amendments to the International Crimes Tribunal Act 1973 have been made to align it with international criminal justice standards. These changes, introduced in November 2024, address issues such as evidence admissibility, the use of foreign counsel, and legal defense for those tried in absentia. Further amendments in May 2025 empower the ICT to take restrictive measures against political parties involved in crimes against humanity, including banning parties and confiscating assets.
The government is also working on establishing specialized Commercial Courts to expedite the resolution of commercial disputes valued at a minimum of BDT 50 lakh, thereby enhancing the business environment. The proposed ordinance outlines pre-institution mediation, dedicated commercial benches, fast-track procedures, and appellate mechanisms, with support and expertise from the European Union through TAIEX.
Lastly, the interim government plans to amend the Public Service Act 2018, aiming to reshape the disciplinary framework for its 1.4 million civil servants. The proposed amendments would introduce quicker disciplinary actions, limit appeals, and eliminate formal inquiries, though concerns have been raised about potential arbitrary punishments and weakened defense rights.