Published: 07 June 2026
Transparency International Bangladesh’s (TIB) review of The Government's First 100 Days after the 13th National Parliamentary Election: Tracking Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Commitments reveals a mixed but important representation of the country's governance trajectory. While based on its assessment of governance, accountability, and anti-corruption commitments, TIB found evidence of several positive initiatives alongside persistent institutional challenges that continue to hinder meaningful reform.
The findings suggest that the government has taken several steps that distinguish its early months from familiar patterns of governance. The withdrawal of special privileges for Members of Parliament, the reduction of VVIP protocols, efforts to recover laundered assets, and measures aimed at strengthening administrative discipline have all signaled a willingness to respond to public demands for greater accountability. Parliamentary proceedings have also appeared relatively active, with lawmakers participating in debates and a significant number of questions receiving responses during the first session.
These initiatives have helped create an impression that change is possible. Yet the review also finds that many of the deeper reforms needed to strengthen institutions and ensure accountability remain either incomplete or uncertain. The contrast becomes particularly visible in the area of institutional reform. While most ordinances introduced during the interim government period were converted into law, several measures that had created opportunities for strengthening accountability—particularly those related to the judiciary, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Human Rights Commission, and the prevention of enforced disappearances—were suspended or repealed for further review. At the same time, controversial provisions that may expand executive influence moved forward. As a result, based on TIB's assessment, these developments raise questions about the consistency between the government's reform commitments and subsequent actions. TIB's review suggests that a similar pattern is evident across several governance institutions. Key bodies such as the ACC, Human Rights Commission, and Information Commission continue to face uncertainty due to delays in appointments and restructuring. Meanwhile, TIB's assessment identifies concerns regarding appointments and administrative decisions involving Bangladesh Bank, local government institutions, universities, and professional bodies, where political considerations are perceived to remain influential.
The review also notes that parliamentary activity has not yet translated into stronger parliamentary accountability. Most standing committees are yet to become fully functional, while debates surrounding Article 70 reforms and the implementation of the July Charter continue to leave important questions unanswered. Concerns regarding judicial independence have likewise resurfaced following institutional changes affecting the Supreme Court Secretariat and related structures.
Beyond the formal institutions of governance, the findings point to several areas where old challenges continue to persist. Allegations of politically influenced appointments and administrative decisions remain visible despite commitments to merit-based governance. Questions have also arisen regarding the rapid withdrawal of cases involving ruling party leaders and activists alongside the continued existence of politically motivated cases.
According to TIB's findings, the financial sector illustrates the broader tension between reform commitments and continuity. TIB observed that, despite commitments to banking sector reform, concerns remain over the central bank’s governor's appointment, the Bank Resolution Act 2026, and ongoing loan rescheduling practices.
Concerns also remain regarding the possible misuse of controversial provisions of the Cyber Security Act 2026. At the same time, the relocation of important government information and documents to archival sections has made proactive public access to information more difficult. TIB’s review also notes limited visible progress in addressing corruption risks in public services and responding effectively to emerging public-health concerns.
The review further finds that civic and democratic spaces continue to face pressure. During the first 100 days, journalists experienced various forms of harassment, legal action, and intimidation. Incidents of murder, abduction, violence against women and children, hijacking, land grabbing, and mob violence remained significant during the review period. Attacks targeting shrines and Baul communities highlighted continuing challenges in protecting diversity, tolerance, and public security.
TIB's assessment presents a mixed picture. The first 100 days brought some positive signals and raised expectations for reform. However, uncertainty around institutional accountability suggests that many of the more difficult reforms still lie ahead.
Overall, TIB's assessment does not portray the first 100 days as either a clear success or a failure. Rather, it suggests a period marked by encouraging signals of reform alongside unresolved institutional weaknesses. While several initiatives have generated public optimism, TIB's findings indicate that sustaining public trust will ultimately depend on whether commitments to transparency, accountability, and institutional independence translate into consistent and lasting reforms. To figure out the direction of the government’s reform plan, TIB contemplates that the next few months may be more important than the first 100 days.
