Former CEC ATM Shamsul Huda Passes Away at 83: Architect of Major Electoral Reforms
Dhaka, July 2, 2025 –
Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) ATM Shamsul Huda, widely credited with restoring public trust in Bangladesh’s electoral process during a turbulent political era, passed away yesterday at the age of 83. He breathed his last at his residence in Dhaka’s Gulshan.
His body is currently being preserved at United Hospital’s mortuary, and, according to his brother-in-law Ashfaque Qaderi, he will be laid to rest at Banani Cemetery once his daughter arrives from the United States.
A Bureaucrat Turned Reformer
Huda, a former top bureaucrat, assumed office as Chief Election Commissioner on February 5, 2007, at a time when the nation was gripped by political turmoil. Just weeks earlier, on January 11, 2007, a state of emergency had been declared amid violent political unrest. The ensuing vacuum led to the installation of a military-backed caretaker government led by Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, which tasked Huda with restoring the legitimacy of the Election Commission (EC).
Key Reforms Under His Leadership
During his five-year tenure (2007–2012), Huda played a pivotal role in overhauling Bangladesh’s electoral infrastructure. Notable reforms and achievements under his stewardship include:
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Preparation of a Digital Voter List with Photographs (in collaboration with the army), eliminating ghost and duplicate voters.
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Introduction of National Identity Cards, a transformative step for both elections and citizen services.
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Registration of Political Parties and enforcing an Electoral Code of Conduct.
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Transparency in Balloting, including the introduction of transparent ballot boxes.
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Pilot use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in select constituencies.
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Institutional Reform: Reorganized the EC Secretariat to ensure independence by removing it from the direct control of the Prime Minister’s Office.
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Inclusive Consultation Culture: First EC to engage directly with political parties, civil society, NGOs, and eminent citizens in electoral discussions.
The culmination of his reforms was the peaceful and credible national election held on December 29, 2008, widely hailed by observers as free and fair. His leadership helped restore national and international confidence in Bangladesh’s democratic institutions after a period of deep mistrust.
Controversies and Course Corrections
While his commission was lauded for transparency and inclusivity, it did face criticism—particularly for initially inviting the Saifur Rahman-led BNP faction to dialogue while excluding the Khaleda Zia-led mainstream BNP. The issue was later corrected when the latter group was formally invited, maintaining balance in stakeholder engagement.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 10, 1943, in Faridpur, Huda excelled academically from an early age. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in History from the University of Dhaka, graduating with top honors. Later, he pursued higher education in the United States, obtaining a Master of Public Administration and a PhD in Public Administration from Syracuse University.
Career Highlights Before the EC
Huda joined the civil service in the mid-1960s and served for 34 years, retiring in 2000. Among his most notable roles:
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Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources (1996–2000)
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Secretary, Banking Division, Ministry of Finance (1994–1996)
He was known as a principled administrator who combined technical expertise with administrative integrity.
Legacy and Condolences
Yesterday, the Election Commission of Bangladesh expressed deep condolences, recognizing Huda’s contributions to democratic governance. Election expert Abdul Alim described him as a “visionary who laid the foundation for modern electoral practices in Bangladesh.”
He is survived by his wife and daughter.