Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, on Wednesday said MPs must have a sound understanding of the Rules of Procedure to effectively place proposals and scrutinise bills.

He came up with the remark at a two-day orientation programme titled “Constitution, Rules of Procedure and Parliamentary Activities” for members of parliament began at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said the 13th parliament is working to fulfil public expectations in the country’s renewed democratic journey.

He said members of parliament represent the people and help ensure accountable governance, adding that the Rules of Procedure are not merely administrative formalities but an essential tool for carrying out parliamentary responsibilities.

Highlighting the importance of a vibrant parliament, he said an effective parliament requires both the government and opposition parties to participate constructively in parliamentary proceedings to strengthen public engagement and the legislative process.

Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal, Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam Moni, Opposition Leader Md Shafiqur Rahman, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller and Swiss Ambassador Reto Renggli spoke at the event as special guests.

Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal said MPs have assumed office with the responsibility of representing the people and are accountable to them in carrying out their duties.

Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni said MPs must listen to the problems of people in their constituencies, work for solutions and actively participate in parliamentary activities while ensuring government accountability.

Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman said parliament runs with the fund of taxpayers and should work towards ensuring good governance, economic reforms and sustainable democracy.

More than 170 MPs participated in the first group of the orientation course, according to a press release.