Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh's New Prime Minister After Landslide Election Victory

Tarique Rahman Assumes Premiership in Bangladesh

Tarique Rahman was officially sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh on February 17, 2026, following a decisive victory by his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the general election held on February 12, 2026. The BNP secured a commanding two-thirds majority in the Jatiya Sangsad, ushering in a new political era for the South Asian nation.

BNP's Resounding Electoral Success

The general election, the first since the 2024 student-led uprising that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, saw the BNP alliance win 212 seats in the 300-member parliament. This outcome marked a dramatic return to power for the BNP after two decades out of government. The election, which recorded a voter turnout of 59.44%, was overseen by an 18-month interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Alongside the parliamentary vote, a constitutional referendum on the July Charter was also held, with over 60% of voters approving the proposed reforms aimed at preventing one-party dominance. The Awami League, previously led by Sheikh Hasina, was banned from participating in the election. The Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami secured the second-highest number of seats, winning 68 seats and forming a significant opposition bloc.

Return from Exile and Political Lineage

Tarique Rahman's ascension to the premiership follows his return to Bangladesh in December 2025, after 17 years in self-imposed exile in London. His return was made possible after all corruption charges against him, which he consistently denied as politically motivated, were overturned following Sheikh Hasina's removal from power. Rahman, born on November 20, 1968, is the eldest son of former President Ziaur Rahman, who founded the BNP, and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His victory marks the return of a political dynasty to the forefront of Bangladeshi politics.

Challenges and Pledges for the New Administration

Upon taking office, Prime Minister Rahman faces a range of significant challenges. His administration is expected to focus on rebuilding the economy, which has faced pressure from global shocks and domestic upheaval. Key priorities include addressing inflation, creating jobs, and ensuring law and order. Rahman has pledged to restore democracy and stability, promising a 'new era of clean politics' and a 'balanced foreign policy' where Bangladesh's interests come first. His government is also tasked with implementing the constitutional reforms approved in the July Charter within 180 days.