Establishment of Bangladesh Election Commission

The Election Commission of Bangladesh is an independent and important constitutional institution that plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s democratic system and serves as a guardian of democracy in Bangladesh. The composition, powers, and functions of the Election Commission are clearly stated in Part VII of the Constitution of Bangladesh, which extends from Articles 118 to 126.118. (1) There shall be an Election Commission for Bangladesh consisting of 1[the Chief Election Commissioner and not more than four Election Commissioners] and the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (if any) shall, subject to the provisions of any law made in that behalf, be made by the President. (2) When the Election Commission consists of more than one person, the Chief Election Commissioner shall act as the chairman thereof.

Functions of Election Commission

According to Constitution's Article 119. [(1) The superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of the electoral rolls for elections to the office of President and to Parliament and the conduct of such elections shall vest in the Election Commission which shall, in accordance with this Constitution and any other law – (a) hold elections to the office of President; (b) hold elections of members of Parliament; (c) delimit the constituencies for the purpose of elections to Parliament ; and (d) prepare electoral rolls for the purpose of elections to the office of President and to Parliament.] (2) The Election Commission shall perform such functions, in addition to those specified in the foregoing clauses, as may be prescribed by this Constitution or by any other law.

Field Level Structure

The activities of the Election Commission are not limited to the central level; they extend nationwide through a well-structured field administration that ensures an effective and dynamic electoral system. At the field level, the Commission operates through Regional, District, Upazila, and Thana Election Offices. Regional Election Offices supervise and coordinate electoral activities within their regions. District Election Offices handle voter list preparation and updates, conduct elections, and manage election-related administrative responsibilities at the district level. Upazila Election Offices play a key role in implementing elections at the grassroots level, while Thana Election Offices maintain direct contact with voters, making the electoral process more efficient and orderly. Through this tiered and coordinated field administration, the Election Commission ensures free, fair, and impartial elections.