Bangladesh is set to witness a major political transition as Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman prepares to take oath as the country’s next Prime Minister on Tuesday. The swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet will be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament in Dhaka, marking a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey.
According to reports published by Prothom Alo, the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has invited leaders from 13 countries to attend the ceremony. The invited nations include India, China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives, and Bhutan.
The ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon and is expected to draw both domestic and international attention, given the sweeping electoral mandate secured by the BNP in the recent parliamentary elections.
Earlier, BNP leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan expressed hope that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be among the dignitaries invited to attend the event. Addressing reporters in Dhaka, Milan underscored the BNP’s inclusive foreign policy approach, stating, “Friends to all, malice to none.” He emphasized that inviting regional leaders is a matter of diplomatic courtesy and expressed optimism that the new government would maintain cordial relations with all neighboring countries.
Following the BNP’s landslide victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman through a message posted on social media platform X. In his message, Modi described the victory as a reflection of the trust placed by the people of Bangladesh in Rahman’s leadership. He also reiterated India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh, while expressing his willingness to strengthen bilateral ties.
In response, the BNP publicly appreciated Modi’s congratulatory message, acknowledging India’s recognition of Rahman’s leadership. The party reaffirmed its dedication to democratic governance, inclusivity, and development for all citizens of Bangladesh. It also signaled its intention to engage constructively with New Delhi to further deepen multifaceted bilateral relations.
The 2026 general election in Bangladesh, held on February 12, marked a historic political shift. It was the first national election since the 2024 mass protests that led to the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. The BNP secured a decisive majority in the 300-seat parliament, crossing the 151-seat mark required to form a government comfortably. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami alliance emerged as the principal opposition.
With voter turnout recorded at approximately 59 percent and a constitutional referendum on governance reforms passing alongside the election, the results have sparked both domestic and international reactions. Many observers see this transition as an opportunity for democratic renewal and institutional reform in Bangladesh.
As Tarique Rahman prepares to assume office, expectations remain high for economic stability, governance reforms, and strengthened regional diplomacy. The presence of international leaders at the swearing-in ceremony is likely to signal Bangladesh’s intent to play an active and balanced role in regional and global affairs under its new leadership.
