News|Bangladesh Election 2026Tarique Rahman: From 17-year exile to landslide win in Bangladesh electionResults mark a remarkable reversal of fortune for the BNP chief, who left the country in 2008 and returned from London less than two months ago.
On Thursday, Feb 12, 2026, Tarique Rahman emerged as the prime minister of Bangladesh after winning the parliamentary election with a decisive two-thirds majority. This election, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was officially confirmed by…
On Thursday, Feb 12, 2026, Tarique Rahman emerged as the prime minister of Bangladesh after winning the parliamentary election with a decisive two-thirds majority. This election, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was officially confirmed by the Bangladesh Election Commission.
The recent election is expected to bring stability to Bangladesh following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was removed from power in a Gen Z-led uprising in 2024. Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death in absentia and remains in exile in New Delhi.
Rahman returned to Bangladesh after a 17-year exile in London, assuming leadership of the BNP following his mother's passing. During his campaign, he emphasized recalibrating international partnerships, expanding financial aid for underprivileged families, and diversifying the economy beyond garment exports.
Recalibrate international partnerships to attract investments while maintaining national autonomy. Expand financial aid to economically disadvantaged families. Promote industrial diversification beyond garment exports, focusing on sectors such as toys and leather goods. Introduce a two-term, 10-year limit for prime ministers to prevent autocratic governance.
This election, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was officially confirmed by the Bangladesh Election Commission.
Rahman faces significant challenges, including ensuring good governance, law and order, and establishing a rights-based state. His administration aims to move away from cadre-based politics, reflecting the aspirations of younger generations for inclusive governance.
Rahman has pledged to restore democracy and accountability in Bangladesh. His leadership approach is characterized by restraint and reconciliation, with a focus on rebuilding national institutions and restoring public confidence.
Born on Nov 20, 1965, in Dhaka, Rahman is the son of Khaleda Zia and former President Ziaur Rahman, the founder of the BNP. Despite his long absence from the country, he has maintained a strong influence within the party, overseeing candidate selection and strategic decisions.
In conclusion, Rahman's leadership is anticipated to mark a new era for Bangladesh, emphasizing democratic practices and economic diversification as key priorities.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
