SANGSAD BHABAN, Mar 12, (V7N) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today declared that the newly formed 13th Jatiya Sangsad belongs to the people of Bangladesh, saying citizens are looking toward it with expectations of justice and meaningful governance.

Delivering a greeting speech after the address of the newly elected Speaker, Rahman said: “Today’s parliament is the parliament of the people of Bangladesh. The people of the country are looking at this parliament with expectations.”

Earlier, senior BNP parliamentarian Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Bir Bikrom, and Barrister Kayser Kamal were unanimously elected as Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the Speaker is now the guardian of the entire parliament, not affiliated with any party, and pledged maximum support from members in conducting proceedings. He noted that for more than a decade and a half, people’s democratic rights had been denied, but the present parliament is composed of representatives directly elected by citizens’ votes.

Rahman said the ruling party does not want opposition merely for the sake of opposition, but seeks constructive debates and specific arguments to make parliament vibrant. He concluded by extending greetings and prayers for the Speaker’s success in leading the House.

Meanwhile, Home Minister and BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed said a discrimination‑free Bangladesh would be built in line with the vision of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

Taking part in a discussion on a condolence motion, Salahuddin paid tribute to Khaleda Zia and other recently deceased political and social figures. He recalled Khaleda Zia’s role in restoring democratic values and her leadership during critical moments, including the July Mass Uprising of 2024.

He also honored the contributions of the Liberation War of 1971 and the July 2024 movement, vowing to build a Bangladesh that reflects their aspirations. The condolence motion in parliament acknowledged the sacrifices of departed leaders and their impact on the nation’s political and social landscape.

END/AJ/RH