Dhaka: Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the prime minister of Bangladesh on Tuesday after his party secured a decisive victory in the country’s parliamentary elections. The ceremony took place at the parliament complex in Dhaka, marking a major political shift following years of unrest and transition.
Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, returned to the country after nearly 17 years in exile to assume office. His rise to power comes after the 2024 uprising that forced former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from office and led to an interim administration overseeing political reforms and elections.
The BNP and its allies won a commanding majority in parliament, taking more than 200 seats. An opposition alliance led by Jamaat e Islami secured several dozen seats, while the Awami League did not participate in the election following the political upheaval.
Soon after taking the oath, Rahman announced a 49 member cabinet that combines experienced political figures with new faces. The government has signaled that its priorities include restoring stability, strengthening governance, and reviving the economy after a prolonged period of political uncertainty.
Key appointments include Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury as finance minister and Khalilur Rahman as foreign minister. The inclusion of minority representative Nitai Roy Chowdhury has been seen as a move to promote inclusiveness in the new administration.
Some opposition parties boycotted the swearing in ceremony, citing disagreements over proposed constitutional reforms and concerns about the direction of political change. Debate continues over governance reforms and the role of religion in politics.
Rahman’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh politics after decades dominated by the rivalry between Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia. He becomes the first male prime minister in many years, signaling a shift in the country’s political landscape.
The new government faces significant challenges, including healing political divisions, stabilizing the economy, advancing constitutional reforms, and balancing religious and secular interests. Rebuilding regional relationships, particularly with India, will also be an important priority.
The election and peaceful transfer of power are widely viewed as an important step toward restoring democratic stability in Bangladesh after a turbulent period.