Bangladesh’s 13th Parliament convenes first session with speaker elected amid opposition protests

Bangladesh’s 13th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) officially commenced its maiden session on Thursday , beginning a new chapter in the country’s legislative history amid political contention and strong reactions from opposition ranks. The session, convened at 11 am at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban , marked the first sitting of the newly elected legislature following the February 12 general elections , which returned a two‑thirds majority for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) .

As constitutionally required, the session opened with recitations from the Holy Quran and the national anthem , but began under an unusual arrangement the Speaker’s chair was initially vacant because the new House had yet to elect its leadership. A senior BNP member presided temporarily to oversee the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, the first official acts of the session.

In a unanimous voice vote, senior BNP parliamentarian Major (Retd.) Hafizuddin Ahmed was elected Speaker of the 13th Parliament , and Barrister Kayser Kamal was elected Deputy Speaker . Both leaders took their oaths of office later in the session, administered by President Mohammad Shahabuddin in the chamber. Hafizuddin Ahmed, a six‑term MP and former Minister for Liberation War Affairs, represents Bhola‑3 , while Kayser Kamal, the MP for Netrokona‑1 and former State Minister for Land, assumes the deputy role.

Unlike past practice, the presidential address a constitutional formality delivered at the start of a new parliament saw dramatic opposition protest . Members of Bangladesh Jamaat‑e‑Islami staged a walkout as President Shahabuddin rose to speak, with some displaying red cards and vocally rejecting his address. Opposing MPs later returned after leaving the chamber. Opposition leaders have repeatedly criticised the president’s role, asserting he lacks the mandate to address the House.

Ahead of Thursday’s session, the opposition had also challenged the legitimacy of the address and flagged broader political grievances. Jamaat‑e‑Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman urged the government to honour constitutional reforms outlined in the “July Charter” and insisted that powers and positions be shared only following full implementation of the reform proposals.

Prime Minister and Leader of the House Tarique Rahman welcomed the start of parliamentary work, calling the new legislature “a forum to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the people.” He stressed the importance of constructive debate and a vibrant parliament capable of addressing national priorities.

The session is expected to address several administrative and legislative matters, including the approval of interim government ordinances , formation of key parliamentary committees , and the parliamentary business agenda for the coming weeks.