ISPAB to Hold Early Elections Amid Leadership Transition
Following the appointment of administrators in organizations such as BCS, e-CAB, and BASIS, the Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) is set to conduct early elections to form its 2025–27 executive committee. The elections, scheduled 15 months ahead of time, aim to restore stability and democratic governance in the association.
A three-member Election Board, chaired by Supreme Court lawyer Advocate Mohammad Ali, and a three-member Appeals Board, chaired by Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. A.K.M. Shamsul Islam, have been formed to oversee the process. The other members of the Election Board include Assistant Attorney General Md. Ershad Hossain and Rakib Hossain, while the Appeals Board members are Lt. Col. Ahmed Daniya Islam and Advocate Md. Nihar Hossain (Faruk).
Advocate Mohammad Ali commented, "We received the official letter yesterday. We plan to meet next week to prepare the election schedule. Our first step will be to draft a voter list, inviting objections and corrections. We aim to conduct an efficient and inclusive election as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, the current committee will continue managing routine activities."
The decision to hold early elections comes after the 2024–26 executive committee faced significant criticism during the political upheaval in July and August, marked by internet shutdowns and controversies involving members linked to the ousted government. Amid growing dissent, three committee members resigned, and questions about the president's leadership further destabilized the organization.
In response to this situation, the executive council invoked Section 13(4) of the ISPAB constitution and the Trade Organization Rules of 1994. During a meeting on December 10, the council decided to hold new elections to avoid further mistrust and the imposition of administrators. Subsequently, the Election and Appeals Boards were formed on December 18 to facilitate the process.
It is notable that the 2024–26 committee was elected on March 17, 2023. The decision to hold fresh elections reflects the association’s commitment to democratic principles and transparent governance.
