Back

Tarique Rahman Sworn In as Bangladesh Prime Minister After BNP Election Win

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • Tarique Rahman became Prime Minister on 17 February 2026
  • The BNP secured about 212 seats in the 2026 general election
  • This was the first election since the 2024 uprising

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh following a general election that brought the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to power. The event marks the first change in leadership since the 2024 uprising that removed the previous prime minister.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the South Plaza of the National Parliament building on 17 February 2026. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office during the official proceedings.

The BNP achieved a decisive victory in the general election held on 12 February 2026. According to available reports, the party secured approximately 212 seats, allowing it to form the government.

This general election was the first to be conducted after the 2024 uprising, which resulted in the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from office. The recent political developments have led to a new administration taking charge in Bangladesh.

What the numbers show

  • The BNP won about 212 seats in the 2026 election
  • The general election was held on 12 February 2026
  • Tarique Rahman was sworn in on 17 February 2026

Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after spending 17 years outside the country. His return preceded the election campaign and subsequent appointment as prime minister.

With his swearing-in, Tarique Rahman became the first male prime minister of Bangladesh in 35 years. This change follows a long period during which the office was held by female leaders.

The BNP's parliamentary win and the appointment of a new prime minister represent a shift in the country's political leadership. The transition was formalised through the official ceremony led by the president at the national parliament complex.

The recent election and leadership change have concluded a period of political transition that began with the 2024 uprising. The new government has now assumed its responsibilities following the formal swearing-in process.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

Sources and further reading

Note: This section is not provided in the feeds.

Related Articles

  1. A by-election is set for 26 February 2026 due to Andrew Gwynne's resignation. Labour, Reform UK, and Greens will compete, according to reports.

  2. The UK Prime Minister called for enhanced military cooperation in Europe during the Munich Conference, according to reports. Arctic deployments are planned.

  3. A visit to Beijing marks a significant diplomatic event for the UK, according to reports. This is the first such trip since 2018.

  4. The Bhumjaithai Party secured around 194 seats in Thailand's February 8, 2026 election. Coalition discussions are now reportedly underway.

  5. Japan's government approved a ¥21.3 trillion budget to tackle living costs. Prime Minister Takaichi announced a two-year suspension of the food tax.

More on Politics

  1. More than 40 measles cases have been confirmed at Ave Maria University. Quarantine measures are in place for affected students, according to reports.

  2. A bill introduced on June 12, 2025, aims to ban direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising in the U.S., according to Senate reports.

  3. A delegation from the University of the Republic of Uruguay visited southern China in December 2023 to discuss joint research and exchanges.

  4. Unite is balloting housing maintenance staff at seven English councils over a pay dispute, with voting set from February 19 to March 26, 2026.

  5. Congressional committees have maintained funding for the CDC Injury Center at $761 million for FY 2026, according to reports.