Tarique Rahman is set to be sworn in as Bangladesh’s next prime minister after his party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), secured a landslide victory in the 2026 general election.
When asked about the oath-taking ceremony of Rahman a senior BNP leader told The Pioneer, “We are awaiting the official gazette notification of the election results, expected in the next couple of days. The parliamentary oath is scheduled for February 15- 16, while the prime ministerial swearing-in may take place on February 17-18.”
The election was held in the aftermath of the July revolution that reshaped the country’s political landscape. The Awami League, a major political party in Bangladesh, was barred from participating in the election, paving the way for a decisive BNP win.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first global leader who called Rahman on his party’s victory and extended India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of both countries. “Delighted to speak with Mr Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples,” PM Modi posted on social media.
Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after 17 years exile in London marks a significant turning point in national politics. Speaking to The Pioneer, Humayun Kabir, adviser to Rahman, emphasised the party’s commitment to regional cooperation.
“We should have cordial relations in the region. It is a very welcome step that Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself congratulated Tarique Rahman and the party on its victory,” Kabir said.
A senior leader of the BNP told The Pioneer that the party received significant support from Hindu voters in this election, specifically referring to Gopalganj and Thakurgaon as examples of areas where minority voters backed the party in large numbers.
Meanwhile, the BNP’s Hindu candidate who won from the Dhaka-3 constituency emphasized his commitment to inclusive governance. “I am Hindu by birth, but I am not only for Hindus – I stand for all my people in Bangladesh,” he said. “I assure that there will be rule of law for everyone equally.”
Soon after landing in Bangladesh, Tarique Rahman assured his countrymen with the declaration, “I have a plan” for Bangladesh. While unveiling the party’s election manifesto, Tarique Rahman pledged to transform Bangladesh into a $1 trillion economy, create lakhs of jobs, and realize his Vision 2030 agenda.
Among the key promises that strongly resonated with women voters was the introduction of a “family card” for women who head their households. Under the scheme, eligible women will receive monthly financial assistance of Tk 2,500. The proposal has been described by party leaders as a major welfare initiative aimed at strengthening economic security at the grassroots level.
Many voters in Dhaka said the announcement marked a turning point for the BNP, particularly in gaining broader support among women and low-income families.
The BNP leadership has also sought to reassure the international community about its economic vision.
“Bangladesh is a vibrant and progressive country. We are open to global partnerships and investment,” Kabir added, signalling that the incoming Government aims to strengthen economic ties and position the country as an attractive destination for international trade and development.
