13th Parliament’s first session ends: 94 bills passed, 133 ordinances tabled

Speaker has called the session particularly significant, being the first held after a “fair” election following an 18-year hiatus

The first session of the 13th Parliament has concluded after 25 working days, marked by the passage of 94 bills and a strong emphasis on parliamentary cooperation.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad announced the prorogation of the session after reading out the president’s order.

He described this session as particularly significant, being the first held after a "fair and spontaneous" election following an 18-year hiatus.

During his closing remarks, the Speaker provided a statistical overview of the inaugural session’s activities.

He said 94 bills were passed, and 133 ordinances were placed before the House.

Seven committees were formed, including five standing committees and two special committees.

In a 40-hour discussion on the president’s Mar 12 speech, 280 lawmakers took part, he said.

The speaker noted that 220 members were first-time MPs and praised their “constructive and tolerant” behaviour.

The session saw active participation in parliamentary oversight through question-and-answer rounds. Out of 93 notices, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman answered 35 questions.

Ministers addressed 1,778 questions out of 2,509 notices received across various departments.

The speaker specifically thanked Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for his leadership and Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman for his positive role in parliamentary proceedings.

"Our priority is to strengthen parliamentary democracy, ensure the rule of law, and maintain transparency and accountability," the speaker said.

"Despite differences of opinion, we must place the interests of the country above all else."

The session began on Mar 12.