Abu Jakir :
As the nation approaches the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, political circles are abuzz with discussions regarding the potential expansion of the cabinet following the festivities.
This speculation follows the recent induction of seven new faces into Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s cabinet at the beginning of the current month.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading her fourth consecutive government, reshuffled her cabinet earlier this year on January 11, with a total of 37 ministers initially.
This reshuffle saw the inclusion of 26 ministers and 11 state ministers. However, with the latest additions, the cabinet now boasts a total of 44 members, comprising 26 ministers and 18 state ministers.
Insiders from the ruling Awami League have hinted at the likelihood of further expansions, estimating an addition of 5–6 new members. There is a keen debate surrounding whether these new inclusions will introduce fresh faces or consist of existing members in the second phase of expansion.
Speaking to our correspondent, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader emphasised that the decision to enlarge the cabinet ultimately rests with the Prime Minister. However, there are indications suggesting the appointment of new ministers, particularly for portfolios currently lacking dedicated representation.
A senior leader within the Awami League, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that discussions revolve around the inclusion of three or four new faces as state ministers.
The growing workload of the government has fueled talks of enlarging the cabinet, with a purported emphasis on nurturing young leadership. Cabinet Division officials, while acknowledging the likelihood of further expansion, remain tight-lipped on specifics, citing the Prime Minister’s authority over the matter.
Sources within various ministries have hinted at potential changes, including the appointment of a full minister for the commerce portfolio and the addition of state ministers for crucial departments such as home, food, agriculture, industries, and land.
Several prominent figures are reportedly under consideration for inclusion in the cabinet, including AFM Bahauddin Nasim, SM Kamal, Faridunnahar Laily, Mirza Azam, and Ahmed Kaikaus, among others.
The final verdict on the cabinet expansion rests with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As anticipation mounts, the political landscape braces itself for potential alterations in the cabinet’s composition.
The recent inductions into the cabinet include Md Abdul Wadud, Md Shahiduzzaman Sarker, Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, Begum Shamsunnahar, Begum Wasika Ayesha Khan, Begum Nahid Izhar Khan, and Begum Rokeya Sultana, representing various constituencies and key positions within the Awami League.
With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, all eyes remain on the Prime Minister’s office for any announcements regarding the much-anticipated cabinet expansion.
