The first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) is likely to begin on February 26, according to sources at the Parliament Secretariat. The development marks the beginning of the parliamentary journey of the new BNP-led government.
Under Article 72(2) of the Constitution, the President must convene the first session of Parliament within 30 days of the publication of the official gazette of the election results. The session is summoned based on the written advice of the Prime Minister.
The gazette of the 13th parliamentary election, held on February 12, was published on February 13. Accordingly, the constitutional deadline to convene the first session falls on March 14. Newly elected Members of Parliament took oath on February 17.
Previous Practice
In previous instances, the first sitting of a new parliament was often aligned with the expiration of the outgoing parliament’s term. For example, members of the 12th Parliament took oath on January 10, 2024, but the first session was held on January 30, as the 11th Parliament’s tenure ended on January 29.
However, since the previous parliament was dissolved earlier this time, there is no need to wait for the completion of a full term before starting the new session.
Possible Dates Under Discussion
Sources at the Parliament Secretariat said a meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s Office on Wednesday with relevant officials, where February 25 or 26 was discussed as the possible starting date for the first session.
Parliament Secretary Kaniz Mowla told the media that no official directive has yet been received. However, preparations are underway to ensure compliance with the constitutional requirement to convene the session within the stipulated timeframe.
The first session is expected to include key formalities such as the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, along with other procedural matters.
