Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh PM After Vote

Published: 17 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Bangladesh witnessed a historic moment as Tarique Rahman sworn in marked a new political chapter in Dhaka. The ceremony unfolded on Tuesday inside the national parliament complex, where newly elected lawmakers pledged loyalty to the republic. The event signalled the formal return to elected governance after months of political uncertainty. For many citizens, the image of Tarique Rahman sworn in symbolised hope after prolonged instability and confrontation.

The oath was administered by Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin during a carefully organised session. Lawmakers stood one by one, promising allegiance to the constitution and the people. The swearing-in followed the decisive parliamentary elections held on 12 February. These polls were widely regarded as a turning point after the turbulence of 2024.

Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, secured a landslide victory with his coalition. The alliance won 212 seats in the 300-member parliament, comfortably ahead of rivals. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami-led bloc captured 77 seats and pledged to serve as a peaceful opposition. Jamaat later announced it would challenge results in several constituencies, citing procedural concerns.

The significance of Tarique Rahman sworn in extends beyond parliamentary arithmetic. Bangladesh had been governed by an interim administration for 18 months. That arrangement followed the dramatic ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina during a deadly uprising in 2024. The upheaval reshaped the nation’s political landscape and left institutions under strain.

Rahman, aged 60, is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia. His return to front-line politics follows 17 years in exile in Britain. Supporters describe his comeback as remarkable and symbolic of resilience. Critics, however, question whether dynastic politics can truly reform the system.

In his victory speech, Rahman declared that the mandate belonged to the people. He said democracy had prevailed after years of repression and division. He acknowledged the enormous challenges facing his incoming government. The economy remains fragile, with inflation affecting households across urban and rural communities.

Bangladesh’s garment industry, the world’s second largest exporter, has faced declining investor confidence. Political unrest and disruptions have affected production and trade flows. Rahman pledged swift measures to restore stability and rebuild trust among international partners. He stressed the need for unity in a country deeply polarised by rivalry.

The president, Mohammed Shahabuddin, was expected to administer the oath of office to the prime minister and his ministers later in the afternoon. That ceremony would formally confirm executive authority under the constitution. Observers note that the smooth transfer of power is crucial for reassuring global markets. Diplomatic missions in Dhaka monitored proceedings closely.

India publicly welcomed the decisive outcome, marking a notable shift in tone. Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi had cooled during the previous administration’s final months. Analysts believe regional cooperation will be vital for economic recovery and security coordination. Cross-border trade and energy projects remain central to bilateral ties.

Meanwhile, the Awami League was barred from contesting the election. The party’s leader, Sheikh Hasina, was sentenced in absentia on charges of crimes against humanity. She has dismissed the verdict as politically motivated and described the election as illegitimate. Her absence from the political arena has transformed parliamentary dynamics.

The new parliament reflects both continuity and change within Bangladesh’s diverse society. Only seven women were directly elected in the general vote. An additional 50 seats reserved for women will be allocated proportionally to parties. Minority communities secured four seats, including two Hindu representatives.

For ordinary citizens, the sight of Tarique Rahman sworn in carries emotional weight. Many families endured violence during the 2024 unrest. Others struggled with job losses and rising living costs. The promise of accountable governance now rests on the new administration’s performance.

Rahman has emphasised institutional reform as a priority. He has pledged to strengthen the judiciary and restore confidence in oversight bodies. Observers argue that rebuilding constitutional safeguards will require careful consensus building. The new government must balance reform with maintaining public order.

Economic policy will test the administration’s credibility in its earliest days. Foreign exchange reserves have come under pressure in recent years. Export earnings remain strong but vulnerable to global demand shifts. Economists urge disciplined fiscal management and transparent budgeting.

Civil society groups have called for greater press freedom and protection of human rights. They hope the new leadership will avoid repeating past mistakes. Rahman has publicly stated that dissent and peaceful opposition must be respected. Whether those assurances translate into policy remains to be seen.

The international community has responded cautiously but positively to the transition. Western diplomats emphasised the importance of credible institutions and inclusive governance. Regional observers highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic role in South Asia. Stability in Dhaka influences migration, trade, and maritime security across the Bay of Bengal.

Despite the celebrations, political tensions have not entirely subsided. Jamaat’s legal challenges could prolong uncertainty in certain constituencies. Analysts caution that reconciliation will demand patience and restraint. A divided electorate still reflects years of mistrust.

Rahman’s personal journey adds another dimension to the unfolding narrative. His long exile shaped his rhetoric on democracy and reform. Supporters see him as a bridge between past struggles and future aspirations. Detractors question whether entrenched patronage networks can truly be dismantled.

As evening fell over Dhaka, parliamentarians departed the chamber under tight security. Streets surrounding the complex remained calm but watchful. Citizens followed developments closely through television and social media platforms. The symbolism of Tarique Rahman sworn in resonated far beyond the capital.

Bangladesh now stands at a crossroads. The transition from interim rule to elected government offers opportunity and risk. Economic revival, social cohesion, and institutional integrity will define the coming months. Much depends on whether promises made in celebration are honoured in practice.

The coming weeks will reveal the direction of policy and tone of leadership. Markets, investors, and neighbouring capitals await early signals. Voters expect tangible improvements in daily life and governance standards. For now, the image of Tarique Rahman sworn in captures a nation’s cautious optimism.

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