The upcoming swearing-in of Bangladesh's new cabinet is slated for February 17, with President Mohammed Shahabuddin set to administer the oaths. This ceremony marks a significant transition following the recent parliamentary elections, where the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a decisive victory. The event is notable not only for the change in government but also for a deviation from traditional ceremony locations.
Election Results and Cabinet Formation
The 13th parliamentary election, held on February 12, resulted in a sweeping win for the BNP, led by Tarique Rahman. The party secured a substantial majority, with reports indicating they won 209 out of 297 contested seats. Other parties also gained representation: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami won 68 seats, the National Citizens Party (NCP) secured six, and Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis obtained two. Polling took place in 299 out of 300 constituencies. A gazette notification detailing the election results was issued on Saturday morning.
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Swearing-In Ceremony Details
The President, Mohammed Shahabuddin, will administer the oath of office to the new cabinet members. The ceremony is scheduled for 4 PM on February 17 at the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex. This location represents a shift from the customary practice of holding such ceremonies at the Bangabhaban, the presidential palace.
Simultaneously, newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to take their oaths earlier the same day, at 10 AM in Parliament. The Chief Election Commissioner, AMM Nasir Uddin, is slated to administer these oaths. This sequence of events aligns with constitutional requirements, which mandate MPs-elect to take their oath within three days of the gazette notification.
Shifting Procedural Dynamics
Recent statements from officials suggest a degree of procedural fluidity. While initial reports indicated the Cabinet Secretary, Sheikh Abdur Rashid, would administer the oath at Bangabhaban, he later clarified that his resignation had been accepted. Subsequently, a Bangabhaban official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the February 17 date for the oath-taking at the parliament complex. A key aide to Tarique Rahman also alluded to the existing scenario making matters "a little complicated."
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Official sources have indicated the oath of office will be administered by the President.
The Cabinet Secretary's prior role and subsequent resignation add a layer of complexity to the procedural arrangements.
The law ministry officials have outlined a three-day window for oath-taking, starting from Sunday, covering February 15, 16, and 17.
Political Realignment
The election outcome signifies a major shift in Bangladesh's political landscape. The BNP's substantial victory, including the return of Tarique Rahman, suggests a significant realignment. The successful culmination of the electoral process and the formation of a new government are expected to shape the nation's future trajectory.
Sources:
Deccan Herald: https://www.deccanherald.com/world/bangladeshs-new-cabinet-to-take-oath-on-february-17-3899199
ABP Live: https://news.abplive.com/news/world/bangladesh-s-new-cabinet-to-take-oath-on-feb-17-1827142
The Business Standard (TBS News): https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh-election-2026/new-mps-cabinet-members-be-sworn-tuesday-bnp-chiefs-press-secy-1361876
WION: https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-s-newly-elected-mps-likely-to-take-oath-on-feb-17-after-bnp-s-sweeping-win-1771095772420
The Economic Times: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/bangladesh-cabinet-oath-in-next-four-days-official/articleshow/128354413.cms
The Daily Star: https://www.thedailystar.net/news/national-election-2026/news/new-mps-be-sworn-feb-17-parliament-secretary-4105851
The Times of India: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/bangladeshs-new-cabinet-to-take-oath-on-february-17/articleshow/128356658.cms
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