Web Desk: Bangladesh entered a new political phase as members of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad took the oath of office, setting the stage for the formal election of Tariq Rahman as prime minister.
Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin administered the oath at the Parliament House in Dhaka. Rahman, to be the prime minister, also took oath as a lawmaker.
Under constitutional procedure, lawmakers will now vote in parliament to formally elect the prime minister. Given the party’s commanding majority, political observers say Rahman’s elevation appears all but certain.
In the recent general election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured a two-thirds majority, a result analysts describe as a significant turning point in the country’s recent political history. Party leaders and supporters have called the victory a reflection of public confidence.
Earlier, interim chief Muhammad Yunus announced in a televised address that the caretaker administration would step aside and transfer power to elected representatives.
He said the interim government had worked over the past 18 months to ensure political stability and transparent elections. Yunus also praised voters and political parties for strengthening democratic traditions and expressed hope that the incoming government would safeguard freedom of expression, constitutional supremacy and fundamental rights. He congratulated Rahman and the BNP on their electoral success.
Meanwhile, Ahsan Iqbal represented Pakistan at the swearing-in ceremony in place of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Diplomatic sources said Iqbal is expected to hold meetings with Bangladeshi leaders and senior officials to discuss bilateral ties, trade and regional cooperation.
The transition follows the end of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024, which ushered in the interim period now drawing to a close. Analysts say the new administration will face immediate challenges, including stabilizing the economy, curbing inflation and fostering political reconciliation.
Security was tight in and around parliament during the ceremony, while large crowds outside described the moment as historic. Attention now turns to the formation of the new cabinet and the government’s policy priorities in the days ahead.
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