Dhaka, February 17, 2026: Following a historic victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections, Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has been sworn in as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, officially marking the party’s return to power after two decades.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, was attended by domestic dignitaries, lawmakers, and international observers. The choice of the open plaza instead of Bangabhaban underscores the new government’s commitment to transparency, accessibility, and public engagement.
Historic Parliamentary Milestone
Earlier in the day, newly elected MPs took their oaths administered by Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin at the parliamentary swearing-in hall. Following this, the BNP parliamentary board unanimously elected Tarique Rahman as their leader, formally paving his path to the premiership.
The afternoon ceremony, where President Mohammad Shahabuddin administered the Prime Ministerial oath, also included the swearing-in of the cabinet ministers and state ministers, completing the first phase of government formation. This marks Bangladesh’s first open-air parliamentary swearing-in, reflecting a break from decades-old traditions.
Cabinet Composition: Experience Meets Innovation
The BNP has unveiled a 30-member preliminary cabinet, consisting of 12 full ministers and 18 state ministers, blending senior leadership with emerging talent. Sources suggest that the cabinet may expand to 40 members in coming weeks.
Key Appointments:
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Salahuddin Ahmed – Likely Home Affairs and Law/Parliamentary Affairs
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Abdul Moyeen Khan – Potential Education or Foreign Affairs
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AZM Zahid Hossain – Health and Family Welfare
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Anindya Islam – ICT/Digital Development
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Zakaria Taher – Transport and Highways
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Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie – Youth & Sports, Information
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Farzana Sharmin – Women Affairs/Education (State Minister)
The government aims to prioritize merit, competence, and youth leadership while ensuring experienced guidance in strategic portfolios such as Finance, Planning, and Economic Affairs.
Governance Agenda and Public Commitment
Key policy and governance priorities emerging from party sources include:
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Enhanced parliamentary oversight, ensuring ministers are accountable to legislators.
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Inclusive governance, incorporating allied parties and technocrats.
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Economic revival post-pandemic, including stimulus measures and investment incentives.
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Digital transformation, focusing on ICT, e-governance, and youth-driven innovation.
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Social welfare and gender inclusion, ensuring women and marginalized communities benefit from public programs.
BNP MPs also announced they will not accept duty-free vehicles or government-allocated plots, emphasizing clean governance and accountability as core principles of the new administration.
Nationwide Reception and Symbolism
The political transition has sparked celebrations across the country, reflecting optimism among BNP supporters and a public eager for renewed governance. Analysts suggest that Tarique Rahman faces immediate challenges, including economic recovery, institutional reform, and effective policymaking, but the government’s early moves indicate a commitment to transparency, innovation, and public trust.
Political experts also point out the symbolic importance of holding the swearing-in in an open parliamentary space, signaling a modern, citizen-focused approach to governance.
Looking Ahead: First Parliamentary Session
The 13th National Parliament is scheduled to convene on February 26, 2026, marking the beginning of formal legislative work under Tarique Rahman’s leadership. Citizens, political analysts, and international observers are watching closely as the new administration begins to implement its vision for economic growth, technological advancement, and social development in Bangladesh.
Read more: https://thereporter24.com/news/tarique-rahman-sworn-in-as-prime-minister-bangladesh-welcomes-a-new-era-after-two-decades
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