Opposition Leader Allotted Mintu Road Residence; Will He Move In?

The historic 29 Mintu Road residence, known as the "Red House," has been allotted to the opposition leader in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad. This two-storey red building, built during British rule for government officials, served as the residence of opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from 1996 to 2001. For the past 25 years since she vacated it, the house remained unoccupied and unallocated, gradually becoming overgrown and lifeless.

The property, spread over 2.5 acres, was a key center for BNP-Jamaat-led four-party alliance movements against the Awami League government in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Top alliance leaders, including Jamaat figures, held numerous meetings there. Now, with Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr. Shafiqur Rahman elected as opposition leader, expectations have risen that he may move in.

The Ministry of Housing and Public Works has already started urgent repair and renovation work, as the building is in dilapidated condition after long disuse. Sub-Divisional Engineer Mehbubur Rahman of the department said 90% of the work is complete, with road access and final painting remaining. Furniture will be provided based on the resident's needs, and full readiness could take one to one-and-a-half months.

Jamaat's Dhaka South Metropolitan Assistant Publicity Secretary Abdus Sattar Sumon said the party has not yet made any formal decision. While the house is traditionally allocated to the opposition leader, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman may or may not accept it. He has emphasized Jamaat's commitment to positive politics following his oath and earlier statements.