Dhaka is buzzing with anticipation as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gears up to form the new government following a resounding victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. With results declared and an official gazette listing the elected lawmakers already published, the stage is set for the new cabinet to take oath on February 17.
Election Commission Secretary Akhtar Ahmad confirmed the timeline during a press briefing, noting that under Article 148 of the Constitution, elected representatives must swear in within three days of the official results. The BNP, securing a massive majority, is now deep into consultations for cabinet positions, blending seasoned politicians with young, educated leaders.
Party insiders reveal that Tarique Rahman, BNP’s acting chairman, is poised to become Prime Minister. Key ministries like Home, Law, Finance, and Foreign Affairs are expected to go to a mix of veterans and fresh faces. The cabinet size is projected between 32 and 42 members, keeping it lean yet effective.
Speculation is rife over portfolios. Humayun Kabir, BNP’s joint general secretary, is a frontrunner for Foreign Minister, credited with bolstering the party’s international outreach. Dr. Reza Kibria, a former senior economist at the IMF, could helm Finance. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury might return to Commerce, a role he held before.
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is in line for Local Government Ministry, drawing on his experience as state minister for Agriculture, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. Other potential appointees include Salahuddin Ahmad for Home Affairs, Mahammad Asaduzzaman for Law, and Mirza Abbas for Road Transport and Bridges.
Health could see Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, while Information Ministry might go to Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. A slew of other names like Nazrul Islam Khan, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, and Gyeshwar Chandra Roy are under discussion. Even the President’s post might change, with Dr. Khandaker Mosarraf Hossain in contention.
This cabinet formation marks a pivotal moment for Bangladesh, promising stability and fresh governance after the electoral triumph. As oath-taking nears, the nation watches closely who gets which key levers of power.