Known for leading Bangladesh’s historic 2008 general election, the respected bureaucrat passed away in Dhaka, leaving behind a legacy of electoral reform and public service.
Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Bangladesh, ATM Shamsul Huda, passed away at the age of 83 on the morning of July 5, 2025. He died at his residence in the Gulshan area of Dhaka. According to family members, Huda collapsed at home around 9:00 a.m. and was immediately rushed to United Hospital. Despite attempts to revive him, he was declared dead shortly after arrival. He had been suffering from various age-related health complications and was receiving treatment at home following a recent fall.
ATM Shamsul Huda served as the Chief Election Commissioner from February 5, 2007, to February 5, 2012. His tenure is particularly remembered for conducting the 9th parliamentary election in December 2008 under the caretaker government. That election marked a critical return to democratic process following a prolonged political standoff and the imposition of a state of emergency. Huda is widely credited with playing a pivotal role in restoring the public’s trust in Bangladesh’s electoral system during a period of national uncertainty.
Appointed during the interim government led by Fakhruddin Ahmed, Huda took charge of the Election Commission at a time when political volatility and mistrust had reached their peak. One of his first major tasks was the modernization of the voter list, which at the time was riddled with irregularities. Under his leadership, the commission introduced a groundbreaking digital voter registration system, incorporating photographs and biometric data. This move, conducted in coordination with the Bangladesh Army, was widely praised both domestically and internationally. The new voter list served as the foundation for a transparent and credible electoral process.
The December 2008 general election, conducted under his supervision, saw a record turnout of over 87 percent. The Awami League-led Grand Alliance won a landslide victory, securing 230 out of 300 parliamentary seats. The election process, which was monitored by both local and international observers, was largely deemed free, fair, and peaceful. Political parties, civil society, and foreign diplomats praised the Election Commission’s neutrality and professionalism, with much of that credit going to Huda’s leadership.
Prior to his role as CEC, Huda had a distinguished career in the civil service. He joined the Pakistan Civil Service in 1966 and continued his public service career in independent Bangladesh after 1971. Over the decades, he held several high-ranking government positions, including as Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Bagerhat, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Bank, and Secretary in the Ministry of Water Resources and later the Ministry of Finance. His experience and administrative acumen helped shape his role in the Election Commission, where his measured and reform-oriented approach earned him a reputation for integrity and competence.
After retiring from the civil service in 2000, Huda remained active in both professional and social capacities. He served as a director and vice-chairman of GSP Finance Company (Bangladesh) Ltd., among other advisory and board roles in the private sector. He also participated in seminars and dialogues focused on governance, electoral reform, and institutional development.
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Former colleagues, political leaders, journalists, and civil society members expressed their condolences, recognizing his role in strengthening democratic institutions in Bangladesh. While his time as CEC was not without criticism—particularly from opposition parties like the BNP—he was broadly respected for his efforts to maintain electoral integrity during a highly charged political period.
According to family sources, funeral arrangements will be made after the return of his daughter from the United States. His burial is expected to take place in Dhaka, possibly at Banani Graveyard or another prominent site, following namaz-e-janaza. His wife, who resides in Dhaka, and close relatives have requested privacy until formal rites are observed.
ATM Shamsul Huda’s legacy remains intertwined with Bangladesh’s democratic evolution. At a time when public trust in institutions was at risk, he delivered a crucial national election that re-legitimized the democratic process. The innovations introduced during his tenure—including the biometric voter list, a revised electoral code of conduct, and a streamlined polling process—have become institutional benchmarks for the Election Commission’s ongoing work.
As Bangladesh continues to face political and electoral challenges, the example set by Huda’s leadership serves as a reminder of the importance of impartiality, transparency, and institutional resilience. His passing is not just the loss of a former public official but the end of a chapter in the country’s democratic journey.
With his death, Bangladesh bids farewell to a reform-minded bureaucrat whose life was dedicated to public service. The respect and admiration he earned over decades will ensure that his contributions to electoral reform and governance are remembered for years to come
source : thedailystar
