After more than fifteen years, democratic governance has returned to Bangladesh following the 13th Parliamentary Elections held on February 12, 2026. With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) securing a landslide victory, the nation is witnessing a wave of optimism.
While the new Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, officially took his oath of office on February 17, a significant question remains within political circles: Where will the new leader establish his permanent official residence?
Jamuna Guest House Emerges As Top Choice
The Ministry of Housing and Public Works has finalised preparations for the Prime Minister's transition. Since the former residence, 'Ganabhaban,' has been designated to become the July Memorial Museum, the State Guest House 'Jamuna' is currently being outfitted as the primary residence for the Prime Minister. Notably, this venue also served as the base for Dr Muhammad Yunus during the interim period.
The Legacy Of Ganabhaban
Located in Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Ganabhaban, which translates to "The People's House" served as the official residence of the Prime Minister until the resignation of Sheikh Hasina.
Following the July Revolution of 2024, the complex was converted into the 'July Revolution Memorial Museum' to honor the uprising. Historically, the site has deep roots; while Sheikh Mujibur Rahman oversaw its construction in 1973 to serve as a secretariat and residence, he never lived there personally. After 1975, the site saw various uses, including serving as a location for military courts under martial law.
Alternative Plans And Challenges
Parliament Complex Proposal: An initial plan to merge the residences of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker within the Parliament complex into a single PM residence was scrapped in December due to high security risks and protocol complications.
The 'Firoza' Connection: Since his return to the country, Tarique Rahman has been residing at House No. 196 in Gulshan, adjacent to 'Firoza,' the landmark home of his mother, Khaleda Zia. While there is a strong emotional tie to this location, security agencies are wary. Gulshan is a densely populated hub, making three-tier PM security difficult to implement without causing massive public traffic gridlock during commutes to the Secretariat.
Officials may instead recommend a move to the more secure and strategically located Hare Road or Minto Road areas.
Housing For Opposition Leader
Historical preparations are also underway at Building No. 29 on Hare Road for the Leader of the Opposition. This residence has remained unoccupied by an opposition leader for over two decades.
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While Jamaat-e-Islami has emerged as the main opposition force with 68 seats, their leadership has previously hinted at maintaining a distance from certain state-provided luxuries.
Awaiting The Final Decision
While the Ministry of Housing has prepared multiple venues, the final word rests with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). As the new administration begins its term, the citizens of Bangladesh are watching closely, viewing the relocation as a symbolic step in the country's fresh democratic journey.