Tarique Rahman: Leading Bangladesh into a New Era

Tarique Rahman has been inaugurated as Bangladesh's new Prime Minister, succeeding an interim government. Rahman, son of Khaleda Zia, returns from a 17-year self-imposed exile in London. The BNP secured a major electoral victory, marking a political shift. Rahman emphasizes national unity amidst challenges of a fragile economy and governance.

Tarique Rahman assumed office as Bangladesh's Prime Minister, succeeding the interim government that held power for 18 months following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's administration in August 2024. President Mohammed Shahabuddin swore in Rahman at the Jatiya Sangsad's South Plaza, breaking from traditional venues.

Rahman, whose political heritage includes his mother, former premier Khaleda Zia, and late President Ziaur Rahman, returned from a 17-year self-exile in London just two months prior. His tenure is expected to last five years after being elected leader of the parliamentary party by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) lawmakers.

At the ceremony, attended by regional leaders such as India's Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla, the BNP's parliamentary victory was highlighted. With 209 of 297 seats, the BNP overshadowed the Jamaat-e-Islami's 68 seats, following a politically turbulent period marked by protests that ended the Awami League's 15-year rule. Rahman stressed national unity and peace, confronting challenges of economic frailty and governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)