After securing an absolute majority in the 13th National Parliament election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is returning to state power for the fourth time after a two-decade gap. The new cabinet, to be formed under the leadership of party Chairperson Tarique Rahman, will reflect a balanced combination of youth and experience.
A decision has been made to form an initial 30-member cabinet, consisting of 12 full ministers and 18 state ministers. Following the swearing-in of the newly elected Members of Parliament on Tuesday (February 17), the Cabinet Division will formally notify the concerned individuals.
Despite widespread curiosity in political circles at home and abroad, the final list of cabinet members remains reserved with the incoming Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Reliable party sources have indicated that several senior leaders and standing committee members may not be included in the new cabinet. Tarique Rahman is reportedly planning to move forward with the slogan “Bangladesh First,” prioritizing competence, experience, and youth in rebuilding the country.
Alongside elected BNP lawmakers, at least four experts may be included under the technocrat quota. In addition, leaders from allied parties who were active in the joint political movement are also likely to be accommodated in the cabinet.
Authorities have already prepared 37 vehicles and an equal number of official residences for prospective ministers from the government transport pool, indicating that the cabinet’s size could initially approach 40 members.
Among experienced leaders being discussed for possible inclusion are Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moyeen Khan, and Mirza Abbas. However, there is speculation that Mirza Fakhrul is more interested in serving as Deputy Leader of the House rather than taking a ministerial position.
For key ministries such as finance, foreign affairs, and home affairs, names like Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, and Altaf Hossain Chowdhury are being mentioned.
Younger and promising figures such as Sanzida Islam Tuli and Mahdi Amin are also being discussed for inclusion under the technocrat quota. Among allied leaders, Andalib Rahman Partha, Jonayed Saki, and Nurul Haque Nur are considered strong contenders for significant portfolios.
A key feature of the newly elected government will be placing parliament at the center of accountability. Tarique Rahman has previously stated in party forums that ministers will be directly accountable to parliament. Plans are in place to appoint an experienced figure as Deputy Leader of the House to make parliamentary proceedings more dynamic.
Although this marks the first time since 2001 that BNP is forming a government independently, the party remains committed to delivering an inclusive administration in the interest of national unity.
The swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet is scheduled for 4:00pm at the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex, where President Mohammad Shahabuddin will administer the oath. With this, Bangladesh is set to welcome a new Prime Minister after three decades and a government prepared to face the challenges of the 21st century.
