Major Cabinet reshuffle likely; several new faces under consideration

A major reshuffle is reportedly on the cards in the 50-member cabinet led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

According to sources familiar with the matter, discussions are underway at the highest levels of government to bring new faces into several key ministries, including Education, Health, Agriculture, and Road Transport. 

The government is also reviewing the possibility of expanding the size of the cabinet.

Changes Expected in Education and Health Ministries

The Ministry of Education is reportedly among the key portfolios likely to undergo changes.

Sources said Prime Minister has expressed dissatisfaction with several decisions and public remarks made by current Education Minister Dr. ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon, including issues related to the conduct of examinations during natural disasters. As a result, he may be reassigned to another ministry.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is also expected to see changes. According to sources, several public statements made by Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain Bakul at meetings and seminars have drawn criticism within the government's top leadership. He, too, may be transferred to a different portfolio.

Names Being Discussed for Cabinet Posts

Among those whose names have surfaced in discussions are Goyeshwar Chandra Roy, Nazrul Islam Azad, Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik, A.B.M. Mosharraf Hossain, Abdus Salam Azad, Principal Selim Bhuiyan, Khandaker Abu Ashfaq, and Md. Mojibur Rahman.

Under the technocrat quota, the names of Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Shamsuzzaman Dudu, Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, and Habib Un Nabi Khan Sohel are also reportedly under consideration.

In addition, the government is said to be weighing the inclusion of several senior leaders from its allied political parties in the expanded cabinet.

What Party Sources Say

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior BNP central leader confirmed that discussions regarding changes to the cabinet are ongoing but stressed that no final decision has yet been made.