Dhaka: BNP leader Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the 11th Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Tuesday after his party secured a decisive victory in the 13th National Parliament elections.

The oath of office was administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin at a ceremony held at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

Rahman, 60, returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after spending 17 years in self-imposed exile in London. His return followed the death of his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

BNP’s Return to Power

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured 209 of the 297 contested seats in last week’s elections. The Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance won 68 seats.

The BNP’s victory marks a major political shift in Bangladesh, which for years had been dominated by the leadership of Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia.

Hasina’s long tenure ended after a student-led uprising in August 2024. An interim administration headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus oversaw the country until the February elections.

Challenges Ahead

Rahman now faces the task of stabilizing the political environment and rebuilding trust among minority communities, particularly Hindus, whose safety has been a concern since the change in power.

Economic recovery remains another key priority, especially strengthening the textile sector, which forms the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy.

On the diplomatic front, the new government will have to reset ties with India while managing Bangladesh’s growing engagement with China and Pakistan.

India was represented at the swearing-in by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

Call for Unity

Addressing the nation, Rahman urged unity, saying that while opinions may differ, national unity must remain the country’s strength.

New Cabinet Formed

Prime Minister Rahman has formed a 49-member cabinet comprising 25 ministers and 24 state ministers, including several first-time faces and technocrats appointed for their expertise.

Newly elected MPs of the 13th Parliament have already taken their oath, though they are yet to join the Constitution Reform Council pending parliamentary approval.

Meanwhile, Shafiqur Rahman has been elected Leader of the Opposition, with Nahid Islam serving as Chief Whip.