Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed concern that the proposed 'National Human Rights Commission Act, 2026' would make the commission a government-controlled institution. In a press release on Wednesday, TIB highlighted that the draft prepared by the government on May 17 includes several fundamental changes compared to the 2025 ordinance, which are in conflict with international standards including the Paris Principles. TIB has called for involving all stakeholders before finalizing the law and submitted a 19-point recommendation to the government on June 8.
TIB noted that the 2025 ordinance clearly stated that the commission would not be under the purview of any government ministry or department. However, section 3(2) of the new draft omits this provision, allowing the executive branch to bring the commission under its control. TIB also objected to the selection committee for appointing commissioners, which under section 7 of the draft includes the Speaker, two ministers, a ruling party MP, and the Cabinet Secretary. TIB argued that this structure would compromise the neutrality of the appointment process and create a conflict of interest.
