Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliament is set to begin its first session on March 12, following the February 12 general election that brought the BNP to power. President Md. Shahabuddin has convened the session, which will open with the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and a formal address by the President. The BNP’s Tarique Rahman has become Prime Minister, while Jamaat-e-Islami leader Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has been named Leader of the Opposition.

This parliament is considered exceptional because over 75 percent of its 296 members are first-time lawmakers, and both the previous Speaker and Deputy Speaker are unavailable—the former having resigned and the latter being in custody. Analysts note that the President may appoint a temporary presiding member for the opening session, a rare occurrence in parliamentary history. The session will follow constitutional and procedural rules, including the President’s written speech outlining the new government’s plans.

Experts suggest that the high number of new members may slow the legislative process as they adapt to parliamentary procedures and committee work.