Dhaka, Bangladesh – Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh following a landslide victory for his party in recent parliamentary elections. The win marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape, ending the long-running tenure of Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League.
Rahman, 60, officially assumed the office of Prime Minister on , a day after the Election Commission gazetted the results confirming the BNP’s majority. He also remains Chairman of the BNP, a position he has held since , having previously served as acting chairman since following the imprisonment of his mother, Khaleda Zia, until her death.
The BNP alliance secured 212 seats in the 299-seat parliament, a decisive victory over the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance, which won 77 seats. The results reflect a clear mandate for change after years of Awami League rule. The National Citizen Party, representing youth activists who played a role in recent protests, secured only six seats, demonstrating the difficulty of translating protest movements into electoral success.
In his first address to the nation following the election results, Rahman appealed for national unity, stating, “Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united.” He dedicated the victory to those who had “sacrificed for democracy” and emphasized the importance of collective strength over division.
Rahman’s path to leadership has been marked by both privilege, and adversity. He is the eldest son of Ziaur Rahman, a former President of Bangladesh, and Khaleda Zia, the country’s first female Prime Minister. His father was assassinated in a military coup in , a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political history. Rahman became actively involved in the BNP in , during his mother’s second term as Prime Minister.
Throughout his career, Rahman has faced accusations of nepotism and corruption, allegations he has consistently denied. He has been described by some as a “hatchet man” enforcing party discipline, and critics have suggested his rise within the BNP was facilitated by his family connections. However, supporters maintain that he has been unfairly targeted by political opponents.
The new administration faces significant challenges. Bangladesh has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, but also faces issues of inequality, corruption, and climate vulnerability. Rahman’s government will need to address these challenges while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape.
Rahman has indicated a focus on national unity and inclusive governance. He has also signaled a commitment to reviewing Bangladesh’s foreign policy, stating that the “interest of our people come first.” This suggests a potential recalibration of relationships with key international partners, including India, with whom relations have been a sensitive topic.
An advisor to Rahman recently made remarks regarding “Hindu extremism” and its potential impact on relations with India, a statement that underscores the sensitivity of regional dynamics and the need for careful diplomacy. The remarks, reported by the Times of India, highlight the potential for religious and geopolitical tensions to influence Bangladesh’s foreign policy decisions.
The recent election and the transition of power to the BNP represent a watershed moment for Bangladesh. The country has a history of political instability and military intervention, and the peaceful transfer of power is a positive sign for the future. However, the challenges facing the new government are substantial, and its success will depend on its ability to unite the country, address its economic and social problems, and navigate the complexities of regional and international politics.
The victory of the BNP also comes after a period of youth-led protests and calls for democratic reform. While the National Citizen Party, representing some of these activists, did not achieve significant electoral gains, their influence in shaping the political discourse and demanding change should not be underestimated. The new government will likely face continued pressure from civil society and youth movements to deliver on promises of good governance and accountability.
As Rahman begins his term as Prime Minister, the international community will be watching closely to see how he addresses these challenges and charts a new course for Bangladesh. The country’s stability and prosperity are not only vital for its own citizens but also for the wider region.
