Bangladesh Government May Expand Cabinet as Reshuffle Speculation Grows

The possibility of changes has gained momentum following the resignation of Dipen Dewan from the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs.

Sources familiar with the matter say the government is considering appointing new ministers in at least five ministries as part of an effort to improve administrative efficiency and accelerate public service delivery. Several ministries may also see changes in leadership.

Among the potential changes under discussion is the reassignment of Sheikh Robiul Alam Robi, who currently oversees multiple ministries. Officials indicate that he may be relieved of responsibility for the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry, while other ministers holding several portfolios could also be assigned a single ministry.

According to insiders, the Prime Minister's objective is to ensure that ministries with heavy workloads receive dedicated leadership. At present, the cabinet consists of 25 full ministers and 24 state ministers, in addition to the Prime Minister.

Government and party sources argue that placing major ministries such as finance, commerce, education, and transport under ministers responsible for multiple portfolios has slowed decision-making and implementation. Expanding the cabinet is therefore being viewed as a way to improve efficiency and fulfill key policy commitments.

Several names are reportedly being discussed for possible inclusion in the cabinet. Among them are BNP Standing Committee members Abdul Moyeen Khan and Selima Rahman, as well as BNP Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu.

Other figures reportedly under consideration include Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal and Habibun Nabi Khan Sohel for technocrat positions, and Dr. Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel for a state minister role.

There is also speculation that Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain could be appointed Deputy Leader of Parliament. Other names reportedly being discussed include lawmakers and senior party advisers from various regions of the country.

Meanwhile, Dipen Dewan’s resignation has created a vacancy in the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the resignation was submitted on health grounds and has been accepted by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

Dewan was elected from the Rangamati constituency and had been serving as minister since the formation of the government.

Officials say the Prime Minister has the authority to announce cabinet appointments and reshuffles at any time. Commenting on the speculation, BNP Standing Committee member Abdul Moyeen Khan said that decisions regarding cabinet appointments remain entirely within the Prime Minister’s discretion.

Political observers note that a cabinet expansion could help distribute responsibilities more evenly among ministers and strengthen the government's administrative capacity. However, no official announcement regarding new appointments or portfolio changes has yet been made.