The first cabinet meeting of the BNP-led government was held on Wednesday at the Cabinet Division of the Secretariat, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. After the meeting, State Minister for Finance Zonayed Saki said the prime minister directed all ministers to prioritise the implementation of the party’s electoral pledges. The new cabinet comprises 25 ministers and 24 state ministers, including three technocrats. In addition to serving as Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman will oversee the Cabinet Division, the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces Division. He added that the prime minister discussed possible initiatives for imams and muezzins and emphasised swift action.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 18, 2026 14:49 UTC