Dr. Mohammad Abdur Rob argues that Bangladesh’s democratic journey, long hindered by authoritarianism and power-centric politics, now requires institutional reforms to sustain its post-revolution progress. Writing on February 21, 2026, he highlights that the February 12 election marked a return to democratic governance and that opposition parties must play a constructive role in parliament to ensure accountability and stability.

He explains that a shadow cabinet—comprising opposition members who monitor and critique government ministries—can institutionalize this role. Drawing examples from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Japan, he notes that such bodies serve as “governments-in-waiting,” preparing opposition leaders for future governance. In Bangladesh, the Jamaat-e-Islami and NCP have already announced plans for shadow cabinets, a move welcomed by the ruling BNP.

Dr. Rob emphasizes that a single, unified shadow cabinet would foster national unity and effective oversight. He calls for public dialogue to eventually make the shadow cabinet a constitutional institution, arguing that its success could mark a new milestone in Bangladesh’s democratic evolution.