Dhaka: The first session of the 13th Parliament was officially prorogued on Thursday night following 25 sittings that began on March 12. The prorogation order was read by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad at 9:23 pm, marking the end of a session that included significant legislative activity.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the session saw Leader of the House and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman delivering the valedictory speech. During this period, 133 ordinances were presented, and 91 bills were passed in response to these ordinances, with a total of 94 bills passed overall. The session also saw the formation of five standing committees and two special committees, enhancing the parliamentary structure.
The session handled various procedural notices, including 16 notices under rule 62, and nine under rule 68, of which only a few were discussed. Rule 71 saw 38 notices, with 207 members allowed brief speeches. One notice was accepted out of 14 under rule 164, and two special committees were formed under rule 266. The Prime Minister’s question-answer session featured 93 questions, with 35 addressed. Additionally, ministers received 2509 questions, replying to 1778 of them.
Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad highlighted the cooperative atmosphere between treasury and opposition benches, attributing it to a ‘free, fair, and participatory’ election after 18 years. He emphasized the session’s role in strengthening parliamentary democracy, enhancing the rule of law, and fostering transparency. Expressing gratitude, he acknowledged the active participation of the 220 first-time MPs and thanked Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Opposition Leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman for their constructive roles.
Addressing the national agenda, the Speaker noted government initiatives such as household and farmer cards, and efforts to bolster agriculture and rural economies. He also mentioned canal excavation projects to tackle waterlogging and improve irrigation, aiming to boost agricultural output. Issues of justice for past crimes and ensuring judicial independence were also highlighted, with a focus on upholding the rule of law and the spirit of the Liberation War.
The Speaker concluded by expressing hope that the 13th Parliament would effectively work towards these goals, urging members to prioritize national interest over political divides.