A spirited exchange unfolded in Parliament on Thursday after Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP) Chairman and lawmaker Andaleeve Rahman criticised a Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami MP for demanding washing machines, microwave ovens and curtains for lawmakers residing in government flats, prompting intervention from Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad and Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman.Standing on the point of order, before the ongoing budget discussion, Andaleeve Rahman said Parliament was restored after a difficult struggle and stressed the need to uphold its dignity and standards.

He lamented what he described as the decline in parliamentary standards during previous Awami League legislatures, saying the institution’s democratic character had been undermined and its prestige diminished.

Referring to media reports about Jamaat MP Md Mizanur Rahman’s demand for washing machines, microwave ovens and curtains for lawmakers’ flats, Andaleeve Rahman said the issue caused embarrassment for both him and Parliament as an institution.

“We are not only Members of Parliament; we are ambassadors of Parliament. Whenever we go outside, we represent this House,” he said.

The BJP chief argued that Parliament should primarily be a platform for raising public concerns rather than discussing household facilities for MPs.

According to him, it appeared contradictory for lawmakers to publicly reject privileges such as plots and vehicles while later seeking appliances and furnishings for their residences.

In a sarcastic remark that drew attention in the House, he said if the Jamaat MP still needs a microwave oven or curtains, he will personally provide them.

Continuing the jibe, Andaleeve added that he will request the government to arrange a washing machine and curtains so that the MP’s household could be “properly settled.”

His remarks prompted a response from Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, who sought to defuse the matter and prevent it from escalating into a prolonged debate.

The Speaker noted that budget discussions traditionally allow members to speak on a wide range of issues and observed that the Jamaat lawmaker merely highlighted certain difficulties faced by MPs living in government flats.

“I think it would have been better had he not raised the matter in the House,” he said. “But he did not commit any serious offence.”

Hafiz Uddin pointed out that Parliament has a House Committee responsible for addressing accommodation-related matters and said such concerns could have been raised there instead.

At the same time, he emphasised that the Jamaat MP did not seek the facilities for himself alone but for all lawmakers residing in government flats.

“It may create a different perception among the public, but these items could be considered legitimate requirements. They are not major things,” the Speaker said.

He urged members not to prolong the controversy, warning that further debate could send an unfavourable message outside Parliament. “We should all be careful in future when making speeches,” he added.

The Speaker also took issue with Andaleeve’s offer to personally provide the appliances and furnishings, saying such comments could be viewed as disrespectful.

“I do not think that was necessary,” he said, reiterating that the request was made on behalf of all MPs living in government flats rather than for any individual member.

Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman later joined the discussion and broadly agreed with the Speaker’s observation that the issue should have been raised through the House Committee rather than on the floor of Parliament.

However, he also questioned the appropriateness of Andaleeve’s remarks. “He is an experienced parliamentarian. He went further and offered to provide everything himself. Did anyone ask him to do that?”

Shafiqur Rahman stressed that lawmakers should avoid making comments that could undermine one another’s dignity and called for greater restraint in parliamentary discourse.

Responding once more, Speaker Hafiz Uddin said he understood that Andaleeve’s remarks were intended as an offer of assistance rather than an attempt to belittle anyone, but maintained that such comments were unnecessary and urged members to move on from the issue.

Following Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s return from his visit to China, widespread speculation has emerged within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) regarding a possible cabinet reshuffle. According to various party sources, discussions have intensified in political circles suggesting that changes may be made to the cabinet in an effort to address internal dissatisfaction and maintain balance within the party.

Sources indicate that several influential and right-leaning BNP leaders were not included in the initial cabinet formation, which reportedly led to discontent among certain party factions. To address these concerns and strengthen internal cohesion, a cabinet reshuffle is being widely discussed just four months after the government's formation.

However, neither the government nor the BNP leadership has made any official announcement regarding the matter. As a result, the issue remains at the level of political speculation despite becoming a major topic of discussion.

Party insiders claim that the government's highest levels are dissatisfied with the performance of several cabinet members. Allegations have emerged that the activities of some ministries are not progressing at the expected pace, while the actions of certain ministers and state ministers have reportedly raised concerns about the government's public image.

Against this backdrop, political observers believe that several ministers and state ministers could be removed based on performance evaluations. Various sources suggest that between 10 and 12 ministers and state ministers may lose their positions, while up to eight new ministers and seven state ministers could be appointed. Nevertheless, these reports have not been officially confirmed.

When asked about the possibility of a cabinet reorganization, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi responded cautiously, stating: “The authority to increase or reduce the size of the cabinet rests entirely with the Prime Minister. I have no opportunity to comment on the matter.”

Political analysts consider Rizvi’s remarks significant. While he did not confirm any specific information, he emphasized that the authority to restructure the cabinet lies solely with the Prime Minister.

According to observers, an effective and efficient cabinet is essential for any government. Ministers play a crucial role in policymaking, implementation of development projects, and administrative coordination. Therefore, if questions arise regarding the performance of cabinet members, it is not unusual for a prime minister to make necessary changes.

Some analysts note that governments often review their initial experiences in office and make adjustments to improve administrative efficiency. Such changes can also generate renewed enthusiasm among party members and help maintain confidence in the leadership. Cabinet reshuffles may further contribute to balancing representation among different factions within the ruling party.

Within the BNP, representation of leaders from diverse political tendencies and ideological backgrounds has traditionally been an important consideration. Political commentators argue that the exclusion of several senior and influential leaders from the initial cabinet generated discussion and criticism within party circles. Consequently, any future cabinet expansion may seek to ensure broader representation across different segments of the party.

Meanwhile, public reactions to the performance of several ministries have been mixed since the government assumed office. Expectations were particularly high regarding economic management, administrative reforms, infrastructure development, and public service delivery. Analysts suggest that if these expectations are perceived as unmet, the government may take action against underperforming ministers.

They further emphasize that a government's success depends largely on the competence, coordination, and accountability of its cabinet. Therefore, performance-based changes could contribute positively to improving governmental effectiveness.

At the same time, analysts caution that replacing ministers alone cannot resolve all challenges. Improvements in administrative structures, policymaking capacity, and implementation mechanisms are equally important. As such, any cabinet reshuffle would likely need to be accompanied by broader administrative reforms and coordinated planning efforts.

Overall, speculation regarding a possible cabinet reshuffle in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government continues to dominate political discussions. Although no official decision or announcement has been made, many believe that considerations such as party balance, performance evaluation, and the government's overall effectiveness could lead to changes in the cabinet. Ultimately, attention remains focused on what decision the Prime Minister will make in the coming days.

BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Thursday underscored the need for bringing street children into the formal education system.He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a programme organised by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) at the T&T College ground in Mohakhali, marking the birthday of its Vice President and noted cardiologist Dr Zubaida Rahman.The event included Holy Quran recitation, doa mahfil and free medical check-up for street children.Moyeen Khan said education is essential for any nation to stand tall in the world, and excellence in knowledge and science is what transforms a country into a global power.

Emphasising the importance of education for street children, he said, “Bringing such children under the formal education system will be the greatest achievement.”

The BNP leader said Zubaida Rahman wants to promote the same ideals of education among people, urging all to move forward inspired by her life.

Addressing children and adolescents present at the programme, he said Zubaida Rahman’s ideals should be taken as a source of inspiration. “Her goal is the development of underprivileged people and children of the country, and the programme was organised following that philosophy.”

Moyeen Khan said Zubaida Rahman is not only a renowned physician but also an outstanding student. “She proved her excellence by earning a top degree from the prestigious Imperial College London in the United Kingdom, and instead of limiting her success to personal achievement, she dedicated herself to human welfare.”

He said Zubaida Rahman’s goal is not publicity but public welfare. “This humanitarian ideal should be carried forward.”

The BNP leader urged all to take a pledge on her birthday to build Bangladesh as a dignified nation in the world through service, education and welfare.

Born on June 18, 1972 in Sylhet, Zubaida Rahman is the daughter of former Bangladesh Navy chief Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan, who served as the country’s naval chief from 1979 to 1984 and later held ministerial responsibilities.

Zubaida Rahman completed her MBBS degree from Dhaka Medical College and joined government service after securing first place in the BCS Health Cadre examination in 1995.

She married Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in 1993.

Later, she pursued higher studies at the prestigious Imperial College London, where she earned an MSc degree in Medicine with record marks and a gold medal. She is currently engaged in advanced research in pre-cardiology.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged the Special Security Force (SSF) to ensure that security arrangements do not isolate him from ordinary citizens, saying public trust and affection remain his greatest source of strength.“As the head of government, my greatest reliance is on the trust and love of the people. Therefore, I urge you, as a sophisticated force, to ensure that the security cordon does not push the head of government away from the people,” he said, while speaking at a programme marking the 40th anniversary of the SSF at Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon.

The Prime Minister said the security environment has changed significantly since the force was established four decades ago, with socio-economic, political and geopolitical developments, along with rapid technological advancement, creating multidimensional security challenges.

He stressed the need for SSF personnel to remain prepared through modern and up-to-date training, saying there is no room for a specialised force to lag behind in courage, skills, strategy or technology.

Referring to the BNP-led government's assumption of office following the February 12 general election, Tarique Rahman said the SSF has been providing comprehensive security for the head of government in accordance with state regulations since the new administration took office on February 17.

He noted that he reduced the size of his motorcade to lessen public inconvenience and ensure smoother traffic movement, which has required the SSF to place greater emphasis on efficiency and security strategies rather than expanding manpower.

“As the head of a democratic government, I frequently attend public rallies and state programmes both in Dhaka and remote areas of the country. Ensuring security amid large public gatherings is a difficult task,” the Prime Minister said.

He said the SSF must maintain a delicate balance between protecting the head of government and ensuring the comfort and convenience of citizens, adding that the force's professionalism is reflected in how effectively it manages such situations.

Tarique Rahman also inaugurated a newly built state-of-the-art firing range for the SSF and observed a demonstration exercise. He expressed hope that the facility will contribute to enhancing the force's professional capabilities and help members further improve their operational skills.

Highlighting institutional reforms, he said the SSF's "Red Book" has been revised and modernised for the first time since 2002 to meet contemporary requirements. The updated manual not only provides operational guidelines but also strengthens the legal framework governing the force's activities.

The Prime Minister said SSF members must strictly adhere to the principles outlined in the manual while also being capable of making prompt decisions based on changing circumstances.

He underscored the importance of professionalism, integrity, loyalty, discipline and adherence to the chain of command.

Tarique Rahman also stressed that ensuring the security of the head of state, head of government and other state-designated important persons is closely linked to national security, requiring close coordination among security forces, intelligence agencies and relevant government institutions.

He assured the force that the government will continue taking all necessary measures to further strengthen its professional capabilities in line with evolving global standards.

The Prime Minister also urged SSF members to treat citizens with respect while performing their duties.

“While giving the highest priority to the security of important personalities, you must ensure that ordinary people are not subjected to any form of misconduct,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the force, Tarique Rahman called on its members to remain committed to patriotism, democratic values and the highest standards of professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities.

He thanked the SSF for carrying out its duties with utmost sincerity and professionalism for ensuring the security of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia while she was in office and most recently while she was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital during the final days of her life.

“Following Begum Khaleda Zia’s passing, the SSF also played a significant role as the principal coordinating body in organising one of the largest funeral prayers (Janaza) in the history of not only Bangladesh but also the world. On behalf of myself and my family, I once again express my heartfelt thanks to the SSF,” the Prime Minister said.

He also extended his greetings to all those who have been associated with the SSF, as well as those who are currently serving with dedication, on the occasion of the founding anniversary.