The new cabinet is being formally formed with 12 ministers and 18 state ministers.

Following a decisive victory in the 13th national parliamentary elections, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is poised to return to power for the fourth time, ending a two-decade hiatus. Under the leadership of party chairman Tarique Rahman, the party is preparing to form a new cabinet that blends experienced leaders with emerging talent, signalling a balance of continuity and innovation.

The initial plan envisions a 30-member cabinet, comprising 12 full ministers and 18 state ministers. The official announcement will follow the swearing-in of newly elected MPs on Tuesday, 17 February, when the Cabinet Division will formally notify the appointees. While the political and diplomatic arenas are abuzz with speculation, the final list of ministers remains exclusively with the future Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman.

According to reliable party sources, several veteran and permanent committee members may not be included in the cabinet this time. The leadership aims to prioritise competence, experience, and youthful energy, guided by the slogan “Bangladesh First,” to advance national development.

In addition to elected MPs, the cabinet may include at least four technocrats under special quotas. Leaders from allied parties, who have been actively involved in street movements, are also likely to secure ministerial positions. Preparations are already underway: 37 official vehicles and an equal number of ministerial residences have been reserved, suggesting that the cabinet’s size could initially approach 40 members.

Potential key appointees among experienced party leaders include:

A defining feature of the new government will be enhanced parliamentary accountability. Tarique Rahman has indicated that ministers will report directly to parliament, with experienced leaders appointed as parliamentary deputies to invigorate legislative processes.

While this marks the first single-party BNP government since 2001, the party intends to offer an inclusive administration in the interest of national unity. At 4 pm, President Mohammad Shahabuddin will administer the oath at the south plaza of the National Parliament building, ushering in a new Prime Minister and a government equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century after three decades.