Tarique Rahman sworn in as Bangladesh’s prime minister after landslide election win

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Feb 17, marking a major political transition following his party’s decisive victory in the recent general election.

The oath-taking ceremony was held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, the national parliament complex in Dhaka, where President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office to Rahman and other members of the new cabinet.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Rahman as party chairman, secured a commanding majority in the 13th parliamentary elections held on Feb 12 winning more than two-thirds of the 297 seats. This victory ends the long period since the Awami League’s dominance and represents the BNP’s return to power after decades.

Earlier in the day, newly elected Members of Parliament were sworn in before the prime ministerial oath, with BNP lawmakers forming the BNP Parliamentary Party and officially electing Rahman as its leader — a procedural step ahead of his prime ministership.

The ceremony drew attention from across South Asia. Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, attended as the official representative of the Indian government, underscoring diplomatic engagement between Dhaka and New Delhi. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other senior Indian parliamentary officials were also expected to be present.

The event also saw participation from dignitaries from other nations, including Maldives President Mohammed Muizzoo, Turkish officials, and Sri Lankan ministers, reflecting Bangladesh’s wider regional focus.

Rahman’s ascent to the premiership comes nearly two years after the 2024 uprising that led to the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and paved the way for an interim government.

Following his victory, Rahman highlighted his commitment to strengthening democracy, protecting constitutional institutions and pursuing reforms to address economic and governance challenges.