The search committee tasked with nominating members of the new Electoral Commission (EC) has asked political parties and professional bodies to submit nominations by November 7.

Political parties and professional organizations can nominate up to five candidates for the posts of chief election commissioner and other election commissioners before 5 p.m. on November 7, said a notification issued by the Cabinet Division today (November 3). .

Those interested in submitting names can also make nominations, it said.

Per submission guidelines, applications must include a complete curriculum vitae and can be sent directly to the Cabinet Division or by email.

Earlier today, Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid said the new election commission would be made up of “honest, fearless and efficient people”.

The search committee held its first meeting under the chairmanship of its chairman, Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, at the Supreme Court.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the cabinet secretary clarified his role, saying: “I am not a member of the search committee, but we will provide administrative assistance if necessary.”

He further noted that the committee had discussed its approach and would determine the next steps in the formation of the electoral commission.

Asked about the timetable for the formation of the commission, Dr. Rashid explained that the committee is mandated to submit its recommendations within 15 working days, after which the President will make final appointments to the Election Commission.

The caretaker government on October 31 formed a six-member search committee to recommend candidates for the post of chief election commissioner and other election commissioners. The committee should propose two candidates for each position.

In 2022, the previous search committee that appointed the Election Commission headed by Kazi Habibul Awal received 322 applications from political parties and civil society members.

The appointments included former civilian and military bureaucrats, judges, police officials, academics and senior government officials.