The new cabinet will be sworn in on Tuesday at the South Plaza of the Parliament

For the first time in the country’s history, the swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet will take place at the South Plaza of the National Parliament rather than at the traditional venue of the Bangabhaban Darbar Hall. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, 17 February, in the afternoon.

According to sources, the day will feature two major ceremonial events at the South Plaza. At 10:00 a.m., newly elected Members of Parliament will take their oaths of office. Later, at 4:00 p.m., the new government’s cabinet ministers will be formally sworn in, marking the official beginning of the administration’s tenure.

Prime Minister’s Official Residence Not Ready

Government sources from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works have confirmed that the official residence for the incoming Prime Minister is not yet prepared. Consequently, the Prime Minister-designate will be unable to occupy it immediately after taking office.

An informed source revealed that the residence currently occupied by Dr Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the caretaker government, will only be handed over to the new Prime Minister once he vacates the property. The exact location of the incoming Prime Minister’s official residence will ultimately be decided by the new government.

Historical Context

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had continuously resided at the Ganabhaban for three consecutive terms. Following her departure amid the student-led public uprising, the caretaker government converted Ganabhaban into a memorial museum commemorating the July People’s Uprising, which will soon be opened to the public.

The unprecedented move to hold the cabinet swearing-in at the Parliament’s South Plaza represents a significant departure from tradition, reflecting both logistical considerations and the evolving ceremonial practices of the nation’s democratic institutions. Officials note that the open-air venue allows for greater visibility and accessibility for both parliamentarians and the public, signalling a more inclusive approach to state ceremonies.

With the MP and cabinet oath ceremonies scheduled on the same day but separated by several hours, the events are expected to proceed smoothly, marking a historic moment in the nation’s political timeline.