Parliament’s first session to begin without speaker, deputy speaker: Chief Whip

The first session of the newly elected parliament will begin without a Speaker or Deputy Speaker, ruling party Chief Whip Nurul Islam said on Wednesday (March 11).

Speaking to reporters at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, he said the session will start with the chairs vacant as the appointments to the two posts have not yet been finalised.

"The decision on selecting the Speaker and Deputy Speaker will be taken by Parliament Leader and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman," he added.

Nurul Islam said President Mohammed Shahabuddin will address the parliament tomorrow.

He also noted that no consensus has yet been reached with the opposition regarding the Deputy Speaker post. Jamaat-e-Islami has not yet responded positively to the proposal to nominate a candidate, he added.

Nurul Islam said a meeting held under the Prime Minister’s directive had provided necessary guidance on managing parliamentary activities.

Nurul Islam also called on the opposition to offer constructive criticism and cooperation, saying the government aims to work with all sides to build a democratic and self-reliant Bangladesh.