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BNP secures majority, paving way for Rahman's premiership
Bangladesh's center-right Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has won sufficient parliamentary seats to form a government, positioning Tarique Rahman, 60, as the country's incoming prime minister. The BNP's victory marks the latest chapter in the Zia family's decades-long political dominance.
A political dynasty's legacy
Rahman's parents, both former leaders of Bangladesh, shaped the nation's political landscape. His father, Ziaur Rahman, a military ruler turned president, founded the BNP in 1978 and was assassinated in a 1981 coup. His mother, Khaleda Zia, served as the country's first female prime minister in two non-consecutive terms (1991-1996 and 2001-2006). Rahman's rise to the BNP chairmanship followed her death in January 2026, just weeks before the general election.
A turbulent path to leadership
Rahman's political career has been marred by controversy. He entered the BNP in 2001 during his mother's second term as prime minister, quickly ascending to a senior role. Critics labeled his promotion nepotism, while supporters dismissed the claims as politically motivated. By 2002, he had earned a reputation as the party's enforcer, accused of suppressing dissent to maintain discipline.
In 2007, Rahman was arrested on corruption charges during a military-backed caretaker government. He alleged torture during his 18-month detention and was later released on the condition he leave Bangladesh. Reports suggested he vowed to withdraw from politics in exchange for exile in London, where he remained for 17 years.
Exile and legal battles
Despite his physical absence, Rahman continued to influence BNP strategy from abroad. He became the party's acting chairman in 2018 after his mother was imprisoned. While in exile, he faced multiple criminal cases, including a conviction in absentia for his alleged role in a 2004 grenade attack on a political rally. All charges were later dismissed, and he returned to Bangladesh on December 25, 2025, five days before his mother's death.
Leadership under scrutiny
Rahman's formal appointment as BNP leader on January 9, 2026, reignited accusations of dynastic politics. Former BNP commerce minister Amir Khasru defended the decision, arguing that years of repression under the previous government left the party with few alternatives. "The BNP's activities were so stifled that electing a leader outside the Zia family was impossible," he told the BBC.
"He has seen the dark corners of politics, as well as experienced the politics of conflict and revenge. Whether he can transition from party leader to national leader remains to be seen."
Mohiuddin Ahmed, political analyst
Challenges ahead
Analysts question whether Rahman's decades of political strife-including exile, imprisonment, and legal battles-have prepared him for the demands of governing. His ability to unite a polarized nation and address economic and social challenges will be closely watched as he prepares to assume office.
