Tarique Rahman sworn in as prime minister of Bangladesh on Tuesday, marking a significant political shift after his party’s sweeping parliamentary election victory.
Rahman, 60, is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and late President Ziaur Rahman. He assumes office at a critical time, as the country seeks political stability and economic recovery following prolonged unrest.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a commanding two-thirds majority in parliament. As a result, the party returned to power after nearly two decades in opposition.
An interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus governed the country during the transition period. The election paved the way for a formal transfer of power.
Tarique Rahman is sworn in as Bangladesh’s Prime Ministerhttps://t.co/3ZG6MFZsmD
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 17, 2026Tarique Rahman sworn in as prime minister amid political transition
Breaking with tradition, authorities held the swearing-in ceremony at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban instead of the president’s official residence, Bangabhaban. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath.
Senior political leaders, diplomats, civil and military officials attended the ceremony. Representatives from several countries, including China, India and Pakistan, were also present.
Read: Bangladesh Election: Jamaat Accepts Result as BNP Secures Landslide Victory
Rahman faces urgent challenges. These include restoring law and order, rebuilding investor confidence and reviving key industries such as the garment sector. The economy suffered setbacks during the unrest that followed the uprising, which led to the removal of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Jamaat-e-Islami party won 68 seats in its first election since a previous ban was lifted. It will sit in opposition along with its allies. The Awami League did not contest after the Election Commission revoked its registration.
Rahman’s political journey has been marked by controversy and exile. He returned to Bangladesh last year after 17 years in London. Although rivals have raised corruption allegations that he denies, his return energised BNP supporters.
In his first remarks after the election, Rahman urged calm. “Peace, law and order must be maintained at any cost,” he said. He also warned supporters against retaliation, stressing that chaos would not be tolerated.
