Tarique Rahman Takes Charge! BNP Chief Sworn in as Bangladesh’s New Prime Minister

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh on February 17 2026, following a landslide victory in the 13th Parliamentary Elections. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad in Dhaka. The ceremony marked a departure from tradition, as it was held outside Bangabhaban to accommodate nearly 1,200 guests.

Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh Prime Minister 2026

• Tarique Rahman officially became Bangladesh Prime Minister 2026 after taking oath at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad.
• The oath was administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin in a ceremony attended by national and international dignitaries.
• This swearing-in ceremony was unique as it was conducted outside Bangabhaban, breaking traditional practice.
• The event symbolised a fresh political chapter in Bangladesh politics.
• Tarique Rahman’s leadership begins at a critical time when the country faces economic pressure, institutional challenges and the need for political reconciliation.

BNP’s Landslide Victory in 13th Parliamentary Elections

Rahman’s party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), secured 209 out of 297 seats, ensuring a clear parliamentary majority.

Election results at a glance,

• BNP: 209 seats
• Jamaat-e-Islami: 68 seats
• Awami League: Barred from contesting

The decisive victory reshapes Bangladesh’s political landscape and signals a major shift after years of Awami League dominance.

Tarique Rahman Replaces Muhammad Yunus

Rahman replaces interim government chief Muhammad Yunus, who had taken charge in August 2024 following the collapse of the Awami League regime amid mass protests.

This marks Rahman’s first term as Prime Minister. His leadership comes at a time when Bangladesh faces,

• A fragile economy
• Weakening institutions
• Law and order challenges
• Rahman has called for national unity and political reconciliation.

Political Background of Tarique Rahman

Tarique Rahman is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and late President Ziaur Rahman, founder of the BNP.

Key background facts,

• Returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in self-exile in London
• Elected leader of BNP parliamentary party before oath
• Advocated peace and democratic stability in post-election statements
• His rise represents a dynastic yet politically transformative moment in Bangladesh’s governance.

India’s Representation at the Swearing-in

• India was represented by Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
• Senior officials including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri were also present.
• The development holds regional significance, especially given recent strains in Dhaka-New Delhi relations during the interim government period.

Question

Q. Tarique Rahman belongs to which political party?

A) Awami League
B) Jamaat-e-Islami
C) Bangladesh Nationalist Party
D) National Citizen Party