Adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh

The Adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh (বাংলাদেশের প্রধানমন্ত্রীর উপদেষ্টা) is a senior advisory position within the Government of Bangladesh. Appointed directly by the Prime Minister, these advisers provide specialized counsel on policy matters, oversee specific ministries or departments, and hold ranks equivalent to cabinet ministers or state ministers. The role allows the Prime Minister to incorporate expertise from outside the elected parliament into the executive branch, enhancing governance in key areas such as economics, security, and international relations. This position is distinct from the advisers in caretaker governments, which are temporary and non-partisan.

Advisers to the Prime Minister are appointed under Rule 3(b) of the Rules of Business, 1996, granting them the status, privileges, and protocol of ministers or state ministers.^[1] Their primary duties include:

• Providing expert advice to the Prime Minister on designated portfolios, such as economic affairs, international relations, energy, security, or political matters.
• Overseeing ministries or divisions as assigned, functioning similarly to cabinet members.
• Participating in policy formulation and implementation, often bridging gaps in specialized knowledge within the government.
• Reporting directly to the Prime Minister and attending relevant cabinet meetings.

Advisers do not need to be members of parliament, allowing for the inclusion of technocrats, experts, and party loyalists.^[2][3]

The concept of advisers to the Prime Minister has evolved since Bangladesh's independence in 1971. Initially informal, the role became formalized through constitutional and administrative provisions to support the executive in complex governance challenges.

In the post-independence era under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and subsequent governments, advisers were occasionally appointed for specific tasks, though not as a structured council. The position gained prominence during periods of political transition and economic reform.

Prime Minister Khaleda Zia utilized advisers for key areas, though detailed lists from this period are sparse in records. The focus was on economic liberalization and infrastructure development.

During Sheikh Hasina's tenures, advisers played a significant role. In her fifth ministry (formed in 2024), six advisers were appointed:^[4] These appointments were made to bolster expertise in critical sectors.^[5]

Advisers in caretaker or interim governments (e.g., under Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus from 2024–2026) are separate, focusing on neutral administration during transitions. The Yunus ministry had 20 advisers handling various ministries.^[6]

Following the 2026 election, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman appointed 10 advisers on 17 February 2026, with portfolios distributed on 24 February.^[7] This marked a continuation of the practice to integrate party leaders and experts.