Bangladesh, March 12 -- The 13th Parliament has begun its journey with the beginning of its first session today, just a month after the February 12 general election, amid huge public expectations for a vibrant and effective Jatiya Sangsad.

The maiden session of the newly formed parliament started at 11:05 am today with the introductory remarks from Secretary of Bangladesh Parliament Secretariat Kaniz Moula followed by recitation from the holy Quran and a welcome speech from Leader of the House and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.News BSS

However, unlike in the past, the first session of the new parliament began with the Speaker's chair vacant as the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker (of the previous 12th parliament) are currently unavailable...