In a historic departure from tradition, the swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet will take place at the South Plaza of the National Parliament on Tuesday, 17 February, rather than at the customary Bangabhaban durbar hall. This marks the first occasion that such a ceremony is held at the parliamentary complex itself.
According to official sources, the day will feature two distinct oath-taking sessions at the South Plaza. In the morning, at 10:00 a.m., newly elected members of parliament will take their oaths of office. Later in the afternoon, at 4:00 p.m., the ministers of the incoming government will be formally sworn in.
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 a.m. | Oath-taking of newly elected MPs | South Plaza, National Parliament |
| 4:00 p.m. | Swearing-in of new cabinet ministers | South Plaza, National Parliament |
Sources from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works have indicated that the official residence of the new prime minister is not yet ready. As a result, the incoming premier will not be able to move into the official residence immediately.
Responsibility for preparing the residence will only transfer after Dr. Muhammad Yunus, former principal advisor of the caretaker government, vacates his official residence at Jamuna. Once that occurs, the new prime minister will take possession. However, the exact location and designation of the prime minister’s residence will ultimately be determined by the incoming government.
This transition comes in the wake of political upheaval that saw the departure of the incumbent prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, who had occupied the Ganobhaban for three consecutive terms. Following the popular uprising that led to her removal, the caretaker government converted the residence into the July Popular Uprising Memorial Museum. Authorities have announced that the museum will soon open its doors to the general public, commemorating the historic student-led movement.
The decision to hold the cabinet swearing-in at the parliamentary complex reflects a significant symbolic shift, emphasizing parliamentary authority and accessibility. Observers suggest that this change may also set a precedent for future governments, signalling a move toward more transparent and inclusive governmental practices.
Tuesday’s dual ceremonies at the South Plaza are expected to attract widespread attention, both from parliamentarians and the media, marking a new chapter in the nation’s political tradition.