The new cabinet formed after the 13th National Parliament election is set to take oath next Tuesday at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, breaking with tradition. Foreign ministers of the member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)—founded by the late President Ziaur Rahman—have been invited to attend the oath event.
According to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which secured an absolute majority in the election, the oath will be held at the parliament premises instead of Bangabhaban, following the party’s preference.
Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday, Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul said that the newly elected Members of Parliament will take oath at 10:00 am on Tuesday, likely to be administered by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). Between 11:30 am and 12:00 pm, the BNP will elect its parliamentary party leader. Finally, at 4:00 pm, members of the new cabinet will take the oath at the South Plaza, to be administered by the President.
Why Parliament Instead of Bangabhaban?
Responding to questions about the change of venue, Dr. Asif Nazrul said:
“The July student-people’s uprising and the immense sacrifices through which we gained this parliament give it a significance different from all previous parliaments. Historic events such as the ‘July Declaration’ and the ‘July Charter’ were held at this very parliament complex.”
He further added:
“The funeral of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and memories of martyr Osman Hadi are also connected to this place. The parliament became the center for documenting the July uprising. Considering these emotions and historical importance, and following BNP’s proposal, it has been decided to hold the event at the parliament complex.”
Foreign Dignitaries
Regarding the possible presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr Nazrul said he had been informed in a meeting that invitations had been sent to the foreign ministers of SAARC countries. However, he had no confirmed information about whether any prime minister would attend in person.
Although the Indian Prime Minister was invited, diplomatic sources had earlier indicated that due to scheduling constraints, a representative from New Delhi might attend instead. It has now been learned that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will represent India at the oath event.
The Cabinet Division is currently finalizing the guest list in accordance with protocol. Preparations are underway to decorate the South Plaza in a colorful manner. The interim government believes that the oath event, reflecting the spirit of the student-people’s mass uprising, will become a unique milestone in the country’s political history.
