Dhaka: The 13th Parliament is set to embark on its five-year term with its inaugural session on Thursday morning, following the general election held on February 12. Uniquely, this session will open with the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker unoccupied, necessitating temporary leadership arrangements.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Leader of the House and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will commence the session with a welcoming address and will propose a senior member of parliament to temporarily chair the proceedings. This arrangement will stand until the Members of Parliament elect a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Following their election, a brief adjournment is expected to facilitate the swearing-in ceremony, which will be presided over by President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
Subsequently, the session will reconvene under the leadership of the newly elected Speaker or Deputy Speaker. The day’s agenda includes a condolence motion to honor the late Khaleda Zia, a three-time prime minister and BNP chairperson, as well as other notable figures. Additionally, President Shahabuddin will address the House.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that the Prime Minister would nominate a senior BNP lawmaker to preside temporarily over the session. Furthermore, the Law Minister is set to present 133 ordinances for parliamentary endorsement, and several committees, including the business advisory committee, will be elected.
The Chief Whip, Nurul Islam Moni, emphasized the ruling party’s aspiration for a dynamic and effective parliament, aiming for constructive discussions and debates on national issues. The BNP Parliamentary Party has empowered Prime Minister Rahman to select candidates for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions.
President Shahabuddin summoned this inaugural session of the new parliament, marking the beginning of both the 13th Parliament and the parliamentary activities for 2026. Following the general election, the BNP secured a significant majority, winning 209 out of 297 declared seats. The five-year term of this parliament officially commences with this first session.