Ending a long wait, the new government formed by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which secured a landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, is set to take the oath of office today, Tuesday (February 17, 2026). In a break from tradition, the swearing-in ceremony will be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament instead of the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban for the first time in the country's history.
Outgoing Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Advisor Asif Nazrul confirmed these details during a press briefing at the Secretariat yesterday.
Asif Nazrul stated that the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will take their oath at 10:00 AM today at the Parliament building, administered by the Chief Election Commissioner. Following this, the parliamentary party leader will be elected between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM.
The main event, the swearing-in of the cabinet, will take place at 4:00 PM at the South Plaza, where the President is expected to administer the oath to the new ministers.
Explaining the reason for choosing the South Plaza over the traditional venue, Asif Nazrul highlighted the historical significance of the location. He mentioned that the Parliament premises are deeply connected to the sacrifices of the "July Student-People Uprising."
"The 'July Declaration' and the 'July Charter' events were organized here. The funeral of our late leader Begum Khaleda Zia and the beloved Martyr Osman Hadi were also held in adjacent areas. Considering these emotions and the historic nature of this parliament, BNP expressed their intent to hold the ceremony here, and we have arranged it accordingly," he added.
Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will attend the ceremony as the representative of India. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement welcoming the transition to the elected government led by Tarique Rahman, reaffirming India's commitment to democratic values shared by both nations. Additionally, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Foreign Ministers from SAARC countries have been invited to attend.
The Parliament area has been spruced up with cleaning and painting works for this historic occasion. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Spokesperson and Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Talebur Rahman stated that security measures have been tightened around the venue, and certain traffic restrictions will be in place to ensure the event proceeds smoothly and in a disciplined manner.
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