The government has formed a three-member inquiry commission to investigate alleged delays, irregularities and administrative failures in measles vaccine procurement and distribution during Muhammad Yunus's interim administration.

The commission will examine the failures and their impact on public health, identify those responsible and recommend measures to prevent similar lapses.

A notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Thursday (November 5) said the investigation would cover the interim government's tenure from August 8, 2024, to February 17, 2026.

Former High Court judge Justice Mamnun Rahman will head the commission, formed under Section 3 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1956.

Its other members are Professor Dr Moudud Hossain Alamgir, president of the Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons, and ANM Moinul Islam, additional secretary of the Health Services Division.

The commission has been tasked with determining why measles vaccine procurement and distribution were delayed, whether irregularities or administrative failures contributed to the problems, and who should be held accountable.

It will also assess the alleged adverse consequences for public health and recommend safeguards against similar failures.

The commission will have the authority to visit any location in Bangladesh and summon and question individuals as part of its investigation.

It must submit its findings to the government within 60 working days of the notification's issuance.

The Health Services Division will provide administrative and secretarial support, cover the commission's expenses and assign officials to assist the investigation.

The notification did not identify any individuals accused of wrongdoing or specify the extent of the alleged public health damage.

--