TBM Report
The BNP-led government is set to expand the size of its cabinet to alleviate administrative and political pressure on various ministries. According to sources at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), a reshuffle is in the works to accelerate the implementation of electoral pledges and streamline administrative functions. At least three to four new ministers, including those from technocrat and reserved women’s seat quotas, are expected to join the cabinet before the upcoming budget session.
High-level discussions are currently centering on five to six potential candidates. Among the frontrunners is Mahidur Rahman, an advisor to the BNP Chairperson and former UK BNP President, who is likely to be inducted under the technocrat quota. Other notable names include Ershad Ullah (Chittagong-8), B.M. Mosharraf Hossain (Patuakhali-4), and senior leader Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan. From the reserved seats, Selima Rahman’s name is being considered, though her health and age remain factors in the final decision.
The expansion also aims to address a critical lack of coordination and administrative sluggishness observed in several key ministries. Sources indicate that the Prime Minister has noted discrepancies between certain ministers and their state ministers, leading to delayed decision-making. Consequently, some current ministers may see their portfolios reduced or reassigned. Efforts are also being made to ensure regional representation, particularly for the Noakhali region, which is currently unrepresented in the cabinet.
A B M Abdus Sattar, the current Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, is also rumored to be considered for a ministerial role, which would necessitate the appointment of a new Principal Secretary. While files for these appointments are reportedly ready, a final directive from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is awaited. The government’s Media Cell emphasized that any changes will be made in the best interest of the nation to ensure a more efficient and accountable administration.
, a reshuffle is in the works to accelerate the implementation of electoral pledges and streamline administrative functions. At least three to four new ministers, including those from technocrat and reserved women’s seat quotas, are expected to join the cabinet before the upcoming budget session.){kind=link}