In a historic shift in Bangladesh's political landscape, Tarique Rahman, the Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is poised to take office as the next Prime Minister. Following the 13th parliamentary elections held on February 12, the BNP secured a landslide victory, leading Rahman to formally stake his claim to form the government. This development marks a significant milestone as it ends a 36-year period during which the country was predominantly led by female Prime Ministers. Rahman’s ascent to power follows a tumultuous journey characterized by political struggle, legal battles, and a 17-year period of self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom.
Family Background and Early Political Rise
Tarique Rahman was born on November 20, 1965, in Dhaka. He's the eldest son of the late President Ziaur Rahman, the founder of the BNP, and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Growing up in a prominent political household, Rahman entered active politics in the 1990s. He played a pivotal role in the 1991 general elections, which saw his mother ascend to the premiership. By 2001, during Khaleda Zia’s third term, Rahman emerged as a highly influential figure within the party. His base of operations, known as ‘Hawa Bhavan’ in Dhaka, became the nerve center for the party’s strategic and policy decisions, solidifying his position as the heir apparent to the BNP leadership.
Legal Challenges and 17 Years of Exile
The political career of Tarique Rahman faced severe setbacks during the 2006-07 political crisis in Bangladesh. Following the takeover by a military-backed caretaker government, a massive anti-corruption drive was launched. Rahman was arrested in March 2007 and faced 84 criminal cases, including allegations of money laundering and involvement in the 2004 grenade attack on an Awami League rally. During his incarceration, he reportedly suffered significant health issues, including spinal injuries. In September 2008, after being released on bail for medical treatment, he traveled to London with his wife, Zubaida, and daughter, Zaima. He remained in London for 17 years, managing party affairs remotely via digital platforms.
The 2024 Uprising and Legal Exoneration
The political tide turned in August 2024 when a massive student-led uprising led to the resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina, ending her 15-year tenure. An interim government headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was subsequently established to oversee the transition, while during this period, the judiciary reviewed several cases against Rahman, leading to the dismissal of multiple charges. This cleared the legal hurdles for his return to Bangladesh. On December 25, 2025, Rahman arrived at Dhaka airport, where he was greeted by hundreds of thousands of supporters. His return coincided with the passing of his mother, Khaleda Zia, leaving him as the sole primary leader of the BNP.
Electoral Victory and Governance Vision
Within 50 days of his return, Tarique Rahman led the BNP into the 13th parliamentary elections. He contested from the Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6 constituencies, winning both seats with substantial margins. The BNP’s campaign focused on themes of democratic restoration, zero tolerance for corruption, and economic opportunities for the youth. According to official election results, the BNP has secured a clear majority in the parliament. The 60-year-old leader has emphasized a vision for transparent governance and national reconciliation. Officials indicate that preparations for the swearing-in ceremony are underway, signaling the commencement of a new administrative era in Bangladesh.