Bangladesh has entered a new political chapter after Tarique Rahman was officially sworn in as prime minister following a landslide election win by his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The 60-year-old leader took the oath of office during a ceremony held outside the National Parliament, administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, alongside members of his newly formed Cabinet.
Rahman will serve a five-year term after his party secured a commanding parliamentary majority in last week’s elections, reports dw.com.
In his oath, Rahman pledged to carry out his duties in accordance with the law and uphold the country’s constitution.
His appointment marks the end of the interim administration led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, which had overseen the electoral process widely described as peaceful and accepted by international observers.
Major challenges ahead
The new government faces significant challenges, including restoring political stability, rebuilding investor confidence and reviving key economic sectors — particularly the vital garment industry — after years of political turmoil.
The country has been navigating economic and institutional strain following the 2024 uprising that removed former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from power.
A BNP-led alliance won 212 seats in the 350-member parliament, while an opposition bloc led by Jamaat-e-Islami secured 77 seats.
Calling for unity, Rahman said the election victory represented “a triumph for democracy” and urged political parties to work together to rebuild a nation facing economic fragility, weakened institutions and law-and-order concerns.
Rahman comes from one of Bangladesh’s most influential political families. He is the eldest son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and former president Ziaur Rahman, founder of the BNP.
After years living in London following legal cases filed during previous administrations, Rahman returned to Bangladesh in late 2024 after court rulings overturned earlier convictions, clearing the way for his political comeback and eventual rise to power.
