Dhaka, March 1, 2024 — In a significant development, seven new faces were sworn in as state ministers in the incumbent cabinet led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The oath-taking ceremony took place at Bangabhaban on Friday evening, where President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath to the new members in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The newly sworn-in state ministers include Md Abdul Wadud, a lawmaker from Rajshahi-5 constituency; Md Shahiduzzaman Sarker, a lawmaker from Naogaon-2; Chittagong-14 MP Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury; and three MPs from reserved women's seats – Shamsun Nahar, Begum Wasika Ayesha Khan, Begum Nahid Izhar Khan, and Begum Rokeya Sultana.
The Cabinet Division issued a gazette notification confirming the induction of the new state ministers. "In accordance with clause (2) of Article 56 of the Bangladesh Constitution, the President of the People's Republic of Bangladesh appointed the following persons as state ministers of the government," stated the notification issued on Friday. However, details regarding the specific ministries each state minister will be responsible for are yet to be disclosed.
The Bangladesh Awami League (AL), led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, formed the government on January 11 after securing victory in the 12th parliamentary election held on January 7, marking their fourth consecutive term in power. On the day of the swearing-in, 37 ministers and state ministers took their oaths. With the addition of these seven new members, the total number of cabinet members has now reached 44.
Political analysts suggest that the inclusion of new faces may bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the cabinet, contributing to the government's efforts in addressing the country's challenges and advancing its development agenda. As the allocation of ministries is yet to be disclosed, speculation is rife among political circles regarding the portfolios that these newly appointed state ministers will undertake.
The induction of new state ministers reflects the government's commitment to ensuring inclusive governance and representation, with a focus on addressing the diverse needs of the population. As the government embarks on its new term, the public awaits further announcements on the distribution of ministerial responsibilities and the strategic direction the cabinet will take to steer the nation forward.
