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Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh's Prime Minister

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 6:03 GMT by Deccan Herald
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Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 17th, 2026 - Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and long-time figurehead of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was officially sworn in as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh today. The ceremony, held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, was a meticulously secured event, reflecting the deep political fissures that continue to plague the nation. President Abdul Hamid administered the oath of office, formally transferring power after a contentious election cycle.

Rahman's path to the premiership has been anything but conventional. Years spent in self-imposed exile, coupled with a series of legal challenges - many of which his supporters decry as politically motivated - cast a long shadow over his ascension. His return to Dhaka and subsequent victory represent a remarkable political comeback, yet one overshadowed by the deeply divisive circumstances surrounding the recent elections.

The BNP's victory, while decisive on paper, was far from a clean sweep. Reports of widespread violence at polling stations, allegations of ballot stuffing, and concerns over voter intimidation have fueled accusations of irregularities, sparking protests from the Awami League and other opposition groups. International election observers, while acknowledging logistical improvements over previous cycles, have stopped short of endorsing the election as fully free and fair. This lack of universal acceptance poses a significant legitimacy challenge for the new administration.

Economic Headwinds and Political Polarization: A Dual Challenge

Rahman inherits a nation grappling with significant economic difficulties. While Bangladesh has experienced impressive growth over the past two decades, recent global economic slowdowns, coupled with domestic issues like rising inflation and unemployment, have created substantial headwinds. The BNP campaigned on a platform of economic revitalization, promising job creation, increased foreign investment, and a focus on rural development. However, delivering on these promises will require navigating a complex web of economic realities and securing the cooperation of a fractured parliament.

Beyond the economic challenges, Rahman faces a deeply polarized political landscape. The Awami League, which held power for the past fifteen years, remains a formidable opposition force, and its supporters have vowed to hold the new government accountable. Reconciliation and national unity will be paramount if Rahman hopes to govern effectively. Many analysts believe that a broad-based approach to governance, including reaching out to opposition leaders and civil society groups, will be crucial for building consensus and addressing the country's pressing issues.

International Response and Human Rights Concerns

The international community has reacted to Rahman's appointment with cautious optimism. The United States, the European Union, and other key partners have issued statements congratulating Rahman while simultaneously urging the new government to uphold democratic principles, respect human rights, and ensure accountability for electoral irregularities. The emphasis on human rights is particularly pertinent given concerns about freedom of speech, press freedom, and the treatment of political opponents in Bangladesh. Several international human rights organizations have called on the new administration to immediately review and repeal laws that they deem restrictive and to investigate allegations of human rights abuses.

Furthermore, the issue of Rohingya refugees remains a major international concern. Bangladesh currently hosts over a million Rohingya refugees who fled persecution in Myanmar. The BNP has indicated a willingness to continue providing humanitarian assistance but has also emphasized the need for a sustainable solution, including the repatriation of refugees to Myanmar. This will require close cooperation with international organizations and the Myanmar government, a task complicated by the ongoing political instability in Myanmar.

Looking Ahead: Prospects and Perils

Rahman's initial priorities are expected to focus on restoring law and order, stabilizing the economy, and initiating investigations into the alleged electoral irregularities. He has also signaled his intention to pursue constitutional reforms, a move likely to be met with resistance from the opposition.

The next few months will be critical in determining the trajectory of Bangladesh under Rahman's leadership. Success will depend on his ability to bridge the political divide, address the economic challenges, and uphold democratic values. Failure to do so could lead to renewed political instability and jeopardize the country's hard-won gains in development and progress. The eyes of the international community, and indeed the people of Bangladesh, are now firmly fixed on the new Prime Minister as he embarks on this daunting, yet potentially transformative, chapter in the nation's history.