After winning with a huge majority in Bangladesh, BNP chief Tariq Rahman has made the priorities of the new government clear. He has said that law and order in the country will be maintained at all costs and any kind of anarchy will not be tolerated. Besides, preparations for the swearing-in of the new cabinet have also intensified. According to officials, the new government can be sworn in within the next four days. This is the first major indication after the elections that the new regime will make security and stability the top agenda.
Strict message after majority victory
Tariq Rahman said in the press conference that the 13th general election has opened a new chapter in creating a safe and humane Bangladesh. He said that there may be different views, but unity is necessary in the interest of the country. He said in clear words that law and order will remain in force under all circumstances and any kind of injustice or chaos will not be accepted. He described the victory as the victory of the people and said that direct voting has brought back an accountable parliament and government.
Two-thirds majority, changed political map
According to the Election Commission, BNP has won 209 out of 297 seats and has secured more than two-third majority. Jamaat-e-Islami has emerged as the main opposition with 68 seats. Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League was not allowed to contest the elections under the interim arrangement decision. Voting percentage was recorded at 59.44. The results of two seats have been withheld, while the election on one seat was postponed due to the death of a candidate. This election is considered important after a long political vacuum and instability.
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Swearing in of new cabinet possible in four days
According to officials, President Mohammad Shahabuddin may swear in the new cabinet within the next four days. The oath ceremony will take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Bangabhavan. Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid said that the date has not been decided yet, but preparations are going on as per the constitutional process. According to BNP sources, the swearing in may take place on 16 or 17 February. After the gazette notification is issued, elected MPs are required to take oath within three days.
Members of Parliament are usually sworn in by the Speaker, but the Speaker of the previous Parliament has resigned and her whereabouts are not public. The Deputy Speaker is in jail. In such a situation, under the constitutional provision, the President can give the responsibility of administering oath to the MPs to any other authorized person. This option is being considered at the legal and administrative level so that the process can be completed on time.
Hints on foreign policy and regional cooperation
Tariq Rahman said that the foreign policy of the new government will be based on the larger interest of Bangladesh and its people. Relations with China, India and Pakistan will also be decided on this basis. Only those steps will be taken on projects like Belt and Road which will be in the national interest. He expressed his desire to reactivate SAARC and said that efforts will be made to revive it by talking to friendly countries. He appealed to all political parties to cooperate and play a responsible role.
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