Shawdesh desk:

President M Abdul Hamid will address the 16th session of the 11th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) commencing today at 4 pm as it is the maiden session of 2022.

In line with the parliamentary practice, the President addresses the first parliamentary sitting every year.

Earlier, the President convened the first parliament session of 2022 exercising the power bestowed upon him as per the Article 72 (1) of the Constitution.

The President’s speech has already been approved in the cabinet.

The successes and future plans, including the development activities of the Awami League government, will get priority in his speech. Besides, several bills are likely to be placed before the House and passed as well in this session.

Before commencing the House proceedings on the day, the Parliamentary Business Advisory Committee is scheduled to hold a meeting, with Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury in the chair, to fix the duration and agendas of the session.

A spokesman of the parliament secretariat told BSS that due to coronavirus pandemic, this session is likely to be short. This session will be held in compliance with all health protocols amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Usually, the duration of the first session of the year is held relatively longer period as discussions are taken on the ‘Thanksgiving Motion on President’s Speech”.

But this session may last for 10 to 12 working days due to the pandemic situation, said the official, adding that the period could be shorter or longer depending on the covid-19 situation.

Besides, the journalists have been urged to cover the JS session through the Sangsad Bangladesh Television. However, the newsmen would only cover the first day of the session in parson from the Sangsad Bhaban.

Earlier, the 15th session of the parliament was held between November 14 and November 28, 2021. The President addressed the last session, marking the Golden Jubilee of the Country’s Independence.