Newly appointed Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee on Wednesday sought prayers from the people, pledging to discharge his responsibility above party lines and in the interest of the nation. Speaking at the Secretariat at noon after assuming office on his first working day, Anee described the portfolio as a major responsibility. Minister Anee said the new government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, would work to carry out its duty effectively. Wednesday marked the first working day of the newly formed cabinet led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The first official meeting of the new cabinet is scheduled to be held later in the day, with the prime minister in the chair.