The government has extended the executive magistracy powers for designated officers of the armed forces for another two months — making this the fifth consecutive extension of this special authority.

A gazette notification was issued by the Ministry of Public Administration today confirming the decision.

According to the new directive, the extended powers will remain in effect for 60 days starting from May 14.

Initially granted in September last year — following the mass uprising in August — the magistracy authority was provided for two months to commissioned officers holding the rank of captain or above in the Bangladesh army, navy and air force, as well as equivalent officers serving on deputation in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). Since then, the authority has been extended every two months.

Officials at the public administration ministry confirmed that this is the fifth such extension.

Under this special arrangement, designated officers are empowered to take necessary actions under various sections of the Code of Criminal Procedure.