Speculation Grows Over BNP’s New Cabinet as Tarique Rahman Set to Form Government
Dhaka, Feb 15, 2026: After securing an absolute majority in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is preparing to form the next government, with party chief Tarique Rahman expected to assume the role of Prime Minister. Political circles and party insiders are now focused on one central question: who will make it into the new cabinet?
Blend of Experience and Youth
Senior BNP policymakers are reportedly working on finalizing a cabinet that combines seasoned leadership with younger, competent figures. According to party sources, the upcoming council of ministers may not be overly large. There is also discussion of expanding the Prime Minister’s Office with advisers and special assistants, potentially including professionals from diverse sectors such as international development and information technology.
The party is said to be prioritizing nationwide representation, including members from different religious communities and regions of the country.
Senior Leaders in Discussion
Among the experienced leaders whose names are circulating for ministerial roles are BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, standing committee members Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Selima Rahman and Gayeshwar Chandra Roy.
There is also speculation that standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan could be appointed as Political Adviser to the Prime Minister following the formation of the government.
Other prominent figures being discussed include standing committee member AZM Zahid Hossain and vice chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo, both considered potential new faces in the cabinet.
Allies May Get Representation
BNP had earlier pledged to form a “national government” in coordination with its allies. Leaders from allied parties are also reportedly under consideration.
Among them are Zonayed Saki of the Ganosamhati Andolon and Andalib Rahman Partha of the Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP).
Several allied leaders who contested the election under BNP’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol are also in the spotlight. Among those who secured victory are Shahadat Hossain Selim and Bobby Hajjaj, whose names are being discussed for possible roles.
Focus on Youth and Diversity
Party insiders indicate that between 10 and 15 young leaders could be included in the cabinet this time. Representatives from districts such as Panchagarh, Sylhet, Noakhali, Tangail, Kishoreganj, Jhenaidah, Netrokona, and Chattogram are reportedly under consideration.
Women leaders and lawmakers from regions including Manikganj, Sylhet, and Faridpur may also find a place in the new cabinet. Additionally, BNP is said to be considering appointing members from minority and other religious communities, including a senior leader and a representative from the hill districts.
There is also discussion about appointing a retired secretary to oversee the Public Administration Ministry and potentially bringing back experienced figures who previously served in the 2001 cabinet and were considered relatively non-controversial.
Awaiting Official Announcement
While speculation continues, senior BNP leader and Cox’s Bazar-1 MP Salahuddin Ahmed has indicated that the public will not have to wait long to see the final composition of the new cabinet.
With a new parliament and a new government on the horizon, the country now looks ahead to what could mark a significant political chapter under Tarique Rahman’s leadership.
