Prime Minister Takes Front Seat in Parliament Session

The 13th National Parliament of Bangladesh commenced its inaugural session on Thursday, 12 March 2026, marking a historic start for the newly elected government. The session began at 11:00 am with a recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a solemn tone for proceedings in the legislature.

Key Appointments and Swearing-In

Following formalities, Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed was elected Speaker, and Barrister Qaiser Kamal became Deputy Speaker. The oaths were administered by President Md. Sahabuddin, formalising the leadership of the 13th parliament.

In the absence of Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chowdhury and Deputy Speaker Shamsul Haque Tuku, senior parliamentarian Khandkar Mosharraf Hossain presided over the opening session, ensuring continuity in parliamentary protocol.

Front Row Seating: Government and Party Leadership

The front row of the government bench—situated to the right of the Speaker—was occupied by top-ranking officials, signalling the hierarchy and key leadership within the ruling party.

This arrangement reflected both executive authority and party prominence, emphasising the positions of ministers and standing committee members at the forefront of parliamentary debate.

Inaugural Proceedings

The session formally began with Parliament Secretary Kaniz Maula initiating the proceedings. Parliament Leader Tarek Rahman entered the chamber at 10:55 am, receiving applause and congratulations from both government and opposition members. This marked his first entry as a parliamentarian, signalling the start of the new legislative term.

During the opening, Tarek Rahman nominated Khandkar Mosharraf Hossain as session presiding officer. The proposal was supported unanimously by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul and endorsed by the opposition’s deputy leader, Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher of Jamaat. Following formal approval and ceremonial protocol, Khandkar Mosharraf Hossain was escorted to the Speaker’s chair.

Historical Context

The previous parliamentary session concluded on 3 July 2024, during the budget presentation for FY 2024–25. Subsequent political upheaval, including widespread student and public movements, led to the fall of the Awami League government. The interim administration conducted elections on 12 February 2026, resulting in a BNP majority government, with MPs sworn in on 17 February 2026.

President Md. Sahabuddin officially convened the first session of the 13th parliament on 23 February 2026 under constitutional authority, with the Secretariat subsequently publishing the formal schedule. This session is not only the first for the 13th parliament but also marks the opening legislative session of 2026, where the President delivered the annual address.