BNP returns to power, new cabinet with 12 ministers and 18 state ministers

After almost two decades, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is returning to power. After an absolute victory in the 13th national elections, preparations for forming a new government under the leadership of party chairman Tarique Rahman are almost at the final stage. Initially, a decision has been made to form a 30-member cabinet, which will include 12 full ministers and 18 state ministers. However, party sources say that the size of the cabinet may increase further if necessary.

After the newly elected members of parliament take oath on Tuesday (February 17), the cabinet division will formally inform the potential ministers. Although there is much speculation in the political arena, the final list is still being kept secret. According to internal party discussions, special importance is being given to the combination of experience and youth in forming this year's cabinet. There are plans to give responsibility to new generation representatives as well as long-time tested leaders, so that there is dynamism in the administration and new thinking is reflected in decision-making.

In addition to the elected members of parliament, the cabinet may include at least four experts under the technocrat quota. At the same time, there are discussions to give responsibility to some leaders of the active partner parties in the simultaneous movement. Initiatives have already been taken to prepare government transport and residences for potential ministers, which indicates that the size of the cabinet may expand beyond the initial list.

The list of potential members includes experienced leaders such as party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moin Khan and Mirza Abbas. However, there are discussions in the party circles that Mirza Fakhrul may be interested in performing parliamentary duties instead of directly serving as a minister. Experienced leaders like Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed and Altaf Hossain Chowdhury may get important ministries—Finance, Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs.

One of the new government's pledges is to ensure parliamentary accountability. Party sources said that ministers will be directly accountable to parliament and initiatives will be taken to make parliamentary activities more effective and vibrant. The new prime minister and cabinet will formally begin their journey with the oath-taking by President Md. Shahabuddin at the South Plaza of the National Assembly at 4 pm. This government, returning to power after a long break, has high expectations, as well as important challenges such as economic recovery, political stability and international relations.