TIB alleges rule violations in bill passing, standing committee formations in Parliament

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has alleged that procedure rules and long-standing parliamentary practices were violated during the enactment of laws and the formation of parliamentary standing committees in the 13th National Parliament. In a statement issued, the organization claimed that the ruling party is weakening the culture of parliamentary accountability through its sheer majority on Tuesday. It also called for the enactment of a new law with the participation of all relevant stakeholders to enhance the authority and effectiveness of parliamentary committees.

TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman stated that prior to the passage of the "Invest Bangladesh Act, 2026," the bill was not sent to any standing committee, select committee, or for public scrutiny. The opposition's proposals to send the bill for public feedback and to a select committee were also ignored. Furthermore, it was alleged that copies of the bill were provided to Members of Parliament immediately before its introduction without granting them adequate time for review, and no opportunity was given to submit amendment proposals.

The organization further claimed that the "Bangladesh Medical University (Amendment) Bill, 2026" and the "Public Examinations (Offenses) (Amendment) Bill, 2026" were introduced in Parliament through a supplementary order of business without prior announcement. TIB remarked that passing multiple bills rapidly while overriding the objections of the opposition raises serious questions regarding the constitutional and parliamentary processes of lawmaking.

TIB also raised objections regarding the formation of standing committees. The organization alleged that, contrary to the spirit of the rules of procedure, the State Minister for Rural Development and Co-operatives was made a member of the standing committees related to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Home Affairs, which could create a conflict of interest. Additionally, TIB claimed that committee chairmanships reserved for the opposition under the July National Charter were not actually distributed as intended. The organization urged the reconstitution of controversial committees, ensuring proper representation of female parliamentarians, and passing a separate law to enhance the power and efficacy of parliamentary committees.