Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expanded the cabinet in an effort to speed up the administrative process, and to complete ongoing development projects throughout Bangladesh on time. The government also aims to finish pending work in the ministries before the 11th general election.
Several insiders, on condition of anonymity, made the disclosure to the correspondent on Tuesday.
The sources also claimed that the prime minister has witnessed the slowdown in activities of at least six ministries, and took the initiative to expand the cabinet to finish those activities as per schedule.
Adding that there could also be a political agenda behind the expansion, sources stated that the prime minister aims to ensure victory in constituencies, where Awami League is lagging behind in terms of vote or development project implementation.
Addressing the matter, Health Minister Mohammed Nasim said, “The process of expanding the cabinet is a continuous process, and it is part of a change for rejuvenating the cabinet.” Agriculture Minister Matia Chowdhury also echoed the same.
Sources claimed that witnessing the slowdown in ministry activities, the prime minister believed that new ministers will help boost morale, and the pending work will be completed on time. On the other hand, several central leaders of the Awami League have declined to comment on the recent expansion of the cabinet. Many of them believe that inclusion of central leaders in the decision would have been a better move.
A reliable source told the Bangla Tribune that the cabinet could see another wave of a reshuffle, and it could happen as early as this month.
It is also learned that much of the election manifesto of the ruling party Awami League is yet to be implemented, and the primary goal of the expanded cabinet will be to finish the pending projects and activities.