Interim Government Extends Term of Armed Forces Officers as Special Executive Magistrates by Another Three and a Half Months

Staff Reporter | PNN

The interim government has extended the tenure of Bangladesh Armed Forces commission-approved officers serving as Special Executive Magistrates (SEMs) by another three and a half months. The relevant notification was issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on Tuesday (11 November).

According to the new decision, Army Captains and higher-ranking officers, as well as equivalent officers in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), will serve as SEMs from 12 November until 28 February 2026.

Previously, the same order was issued on 12 September for a two-month term.

The notification states that these officers are authorized to perform necessary duties under various sections of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, including Sections 64, 65, 83, 84, 86, 95(2), 100, 105, 107, 109, 110, 126, 127, 128, 130, 133, and 142.

Since the formation of the interim government, the powers of SEMs have gradually been expanded to maintain law and order. After public protests by students and citizens on 5 August last year, the Awami League government resigned, and a new government was formed on 8 August. SEM powers were first granted to army, navy, and air force officers on 17 September.

The government’s move is seen as an initiative to maintain law and order and ensure security nationwide.