In a move set to redefine the contours of public employment in Bangladesh, parliament passed two closely watched bills on Wednesday — one laying down revised upper age limits for recruitment into various government posts, and another establishing a comprehensive code of conduct for civil servants. The legislation, which had been debated extensively across multiple sessions of parliament, now awaits presidential assent before coming into force.
The first bill, the Government Service (Age Limit) Amendment Bill, raises or standardises the maximum age applicable for entry-level appointments across different categories of government service. Under the new provisions, the upper age ceiling has been adjusted to bring consistency across ministries and departments that previously operated under varying thresholds. Experts say the change is intended to widen the talent pool while also ensuring that younger candidates get fair opportunities in an increasingly competitive public-sector job market.
The second bill, the Civil Servants (Conduct) Regulation Act, introduces a clearer and more enforceable set of behavioural guidelines for government employees. Among its key provisions are mandatory disclosure of assets by senior officials, restrictions on accepting gifts and favours, and explicit prohibitions on engaging in political activities while in service. Violations will attract disciplinary action ranging from warnings to dismissal, depending on severity.
Opposition lawmakers raised concerns during debates, arguing that the conduct bill could be used to suppress dissent within the bureaucracy. Government ministers countered that the rules were designed to promote accountability and restore public trust in civil institutions. Both bills were passed with broad support following minor technical amendments proposed by a joint parliamentary committee.
