PM may reshuffle ministers, appoint advisers: Zahed

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman could reassign ministerial responsibilities or appoint new members to his advisory council if he believes improvements are needed in government performance, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman said.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Zahed said the prime minister remains focused on ensuring effective governance and would not hesitate to make changes if they are considered necessary for the public interest.

He declined to confirm media speculation over whether any reshuffle could take place before or after the administration completes its first 180 days in office.

“I do not know,” Zahed said when asked about the timing.

“I have seen the reports in the media as well, but I have nothing further to add,” he added.

The adviser contrasted the current administration with what he described as previous authoritarian governments, saying such administrations often avoid acknowledging mistakes or revising earlier decisions.

He said the present government was established with the aim of delivering effective public administration and that the prime minister would act if he believed changes were required.

According to Zahed, discussions with the prime minister suggest that ministerial responsibilities could be reassigned or new advisers appointed whenever it is considered beneficial for improving government performance.

“If, as prime minister, he believes a decision can be taken in a better way, then he will certainly do so,” Zahed said, while reiterating that he could not confirm whether any such move would come before or after the 180-day milestone.

During the same briefing, Zahed also announced that the government is preparing to establish a panel of lawyers to deal with legal cases involving cyberbullying and the spread of misinformation.

He said the official gazette notification forming the legal panel is expected to be issued later this week.