Tareq’s Cabinet: Likely Final Line-up Emerges

The swearing-in of the victorious candidates of the 13th National Parliament is taking place today. At 10:00 a.m., Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin will administer the oath to the newly elected Members of Parliament in the parliamentary oath hall. Later in the afternoon, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tareq Rahman will be sworn in as Prime Minister.

During the same ceremony, President Mohammad Sahabuddin will administer the oath to the members of the new cabinet. According to internal sources within the party, the prospective cabinet is expected to comprise between 35 and 40 members, including 26–27 full ministers and 10–12 state ministers. There remains a possibility that one or two additional members may be added at the last moment. Recent rehearsals indicate the cabinet could ultimately include 37–40 members.

On Monday afternoon, officials from the Cabinet Division conducted the final rehearsal for the swearing-in ceremony. Approximately 40 podiums for the oath documents were prepared in advance, reflecting meticulous planning. Despite the visible preparations, the formation of the cabinet has been shrouded in strict confidentiality.

The following table presents a tentative list of prospective full and state ministers under discussion within party circles:

Sources indicate that additional technocrats and emerging leaders may also be included to provide a balance of expertise and fresh energy. Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, a standing committee member, remarked, “Those who have fought against the fascist regime and earned the trust of the people will be given opportunity. The cabinet will combine both experienced and young leaders.”

The rehearsals and preparations clearly signal that the new cabinet will blend seasoned leadership with fresh talent, aiming to maintain political and administrative equilibrium in the forthcoming government.