In a significant move ahead of the 13th National Parliament elections, the government has appointed 657 judges as Judicial Magistrates for a five-day period to ensure the rapid trial of election-related offences. This decision aims to uphold law and order before, during, and after voting, while swiftly addressing any electoral crimes.
According to a letter issued by the Law and Justice Division of the Ministry of Law, the list of appointed Judicial Magistrates has been forwarded to the Election Commission Secretary. Their term of duty is scheduled from 10 February to 14 February, encompassing two days prior to polling, election day itself, and the two days following. During this period, the magistrates will expedite the investigation and trial of offences under electoral law.
The letter further notes that, in consultation with the Supreme Court, these 657 judges from the Bangladesh Judicial Service have been tasked with ensuring speedy justice under the Representation of the People Order, 1972. They are authorised to adjudicate election offences promptly and apply necessary legal measures under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, in accordance with the law.
This judicial deployment complements an earlier administrative measure. On 3 February, the Ministry of Public Administration appointed 1,051 Executive Magistrates nationwide to oversee law and order and manage executive functions during the election period. These Executive Magistrates will operate mobile courts in their respective jurisdictions from 8 February to 14 February, ensuring rapid resolution of violations.
The table below summarises the appointment of Judicial Magistrates and the election timeline:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Judicial Magistrates | 657 |
| Term of Duty | 10–14 February |
| Scope of Responsibility | Swift trial of election-related offences |
| Legal Basis | Representation of the People Order, 1972; Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 |
| Election Day | 12 February |
| Administrative Coordination | Election Commission Secretariat & Supreme Court consultation |
| Executive Magistrates | 1,051, duty 8–14 February, conducting mobile courts |
Through these measures, the government has emphasised its commitment to maintaining law and order during the election and ensuring that each polling station operates under proper legal oversight. Officials have highlighted that these appointments will strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and deter potential violations of election law.
This initiative represents a coordinated effort between the judicial and administrative branches to guarantee that electoral justice is both swift and transparent, reinforcing the integrity of Bangladesh’s democratic process.