Bangladesh is witnessing a major political shift as Tarique Rahman looks set to become the country’s next Prime Minister. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed “decisive victory” in the 2026 general elections. Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after more than 17 years in self-imposed exile in London, had expressed confidence of securing a clear mandate. His rise comes after the 2024 mass protests that led to the ousting of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina.
Bangladesh Election 2026: BNP Claims Decisive Victory
- The Bangladesh election 2026 marks a turning point in the nation’s political landscape.
- The Bangladesh Nationalist Party announced that it had secured a decisive mandate, positioning Tarique Rahman as the likely next Prime Minister.
- Rahman had campaigned on restoring democratic governance, peace, and institutional stability after years of political unrest.
- Ahead of polling, he stated that strong voter turnout would prevent conspiracies and help usher in a “new democracy.”
- If confirmed, this would signal a major political comeback for the BNP after years in opposition.
Who is Tarique Rahman?
- Tarique Rahman, aged 60, is the eldest son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and former President Ziaur Rahman, the founder of the BNP.
- Ziaur Rahman was assassinated in 1981 during a military coup.
- Khaleda Zia later entered politics and served multiple terms as Prime Minister, becoming Bangladesh’s first female PM.
- Following her imprisonment in 2018, Tarique Rahman took over as acting chairman of the BNP.
- Rahman’s leadership within the party strengthened during his years abroad, where he directed party strategy and maintained political networks.
From Exile in London to Political Comeback
- Rahman moved to London in 2008 for medical treatment and remained there amid multiple criminal cases in Bangladesh.
- He was convicted in absentia in cases including one linked to an alleged assassination plot against Sheikh Hasina.
- However, after the mass protests of 2024 led to Hasina’s removal from power, several legal rulings against Rahman were overturned.
- This cleared the way for his return in December 2025, just months before the 2026 general election.
- His comeback reflects a dramatic reversal in Bangladesh politics and a renewed mandate for the BNP.
Political Context: Protests, Power Shift and Democratic Promise
- The 2024 protests marked one of the most significant political upheavals in Bangladesh in decades.
- Public dissatisfaction over governance, economic challenges, and allegations of authoritarianism fueled widespread demonstrations.
- Rahman has promised to restore democratic institutions, strengthen the rule of law, and ensure political stability.
- His campaign message centered on national reconciliation and economic revival.
- However, challenges remain. Bangladesh faces economic pressures, inflation concerns, and the need to rebuild investor confidence.
- International observers will closely watch how the new leadership manages governance and foreign relations.
Question
Q. Tarique Rahman belongs to which political party?
A) Awami League
B) Bangladesh Nationalist Party
C) Jatiya Party
D) Workers Party