Bangladesh Sees Historic Shift: BNP Returns to Power After 20 Years, Tarique Rahman Set to Become Prime Minister

Dhaka:

The final results of Bangladesh’s general elections have ushered in a new political era. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured a sweeping mandate, marking its return to power after 20 years.

Out of 299 parliamentary seats, results for 286 seats have been declared, with BNP winning 209 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 151 in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament).

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Tarique Rahman to Lead Government

With this decisive victory, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is set to become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

A Major Political Turning Point

• First Male Prime Minister in 35 Years: Since Kazi Zafar Ahmed in 1988, Bangladesh has not had a male prime minister.

• End of the “Two Begums” Era: From 1991 to 2024, national politics revolved around Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia. Tarique Rahman’s rise marks a significant break from that long-standing rivalry.

• Remarkable Comeback: After spending 17 years abroad, Tarique returned to Bangladesh in December last year and contested from two constituencies, winning both by large margins.

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Alliance Performance

The 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami has also performed strongly, securing 70 seats so far. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman won from Dhaka-15, ensuring his place in Parliament.

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Violence Amid Voting

Despite the historic mandate, voting was marred by sporadic violence:

• Khulna: Clashes involving political workers led to the death of BNP leader Mohibuzzaman Kochi.

• Explosions: Homemade bombs were reportedly thrown outside polling stations in Munshiganj and Gopalganj, injuring three people.

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India’s Measured Response

India has responded cautiously to the political shift in its neighboring country. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India is awaiting the formal declaration of the full mandate.

For New Delhi, the outcome carries diplomatic significance, as India maintained close ties with Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government over the past 15 years. The BNP’s return signals a potential recalibration in bilateral relations.

 

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