Politics | Tarique Rahman Sworn In, New Bangladesh Government Formed Today

Prime Minister-designate Tarique Rahman and new members of Bangladesh's Parliament were sworn in today, February 17, 2026, officially initiating a new government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Concurrently, a 'Constitution Reform Commission' was also administered its oath on the same day.

New Government Takes Office

The swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected members of Parliament took place this morning. This was followed by the formation of the new government, which will be led by Tarique Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Rahman is set to become the Prime Minister of Bangladesh after the BNP secured a landslide victory in the 2026 general election, winning at least 209 out of 299 contested seats.

Later today, President Mohammed Shahabuddin is scheduled to administer the oath of office to Prime Minister-designate Rahman and his cabinet.

Objectives of the New Administration

As the new government takes charge, Prime Minister-designate Tarique Rahman has outlined his priorities, which include ensuring the rule of law, restoring financial discipline, and working towards national unity. He also acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in addressing the fragile economy inherited from the previous administration.

The 'Constitution Reform Commission', which also took its oath today, was originally established by the interim government in September 2024. Its primary purpose is to prepare a report on past constitutional failures and to create a roadmap for drafting and adopting a new, inclusive, and democratic constitution. Key objectives for the commission include achieving equality, human dignity, and social justice, preventing the emergence of authoritarian governance, ensuring active public participation in politics, separating the executive, legislative, and judicial organs, and decentralizing state power.

Political Context and Challenges

The formation of this new government marks a significant transition in Bangladesh's political landscape. The nation has experienced months of turmoil, including a student-led uprising in 2024 that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This period saw an interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, steer the country for 18 months, initiating reforms across various sectors. Tarique Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in late 2025 after 17 years of self-imposed exile, led the BNP to victory in the subsequent general elections held in February 2026.

Rahman faces the formidable task of rebuilding trust in institutions and healing social divisions that have deepened over years of intense political rivalry. The success of his administration will depend on its ability to address both economic concerns and the aspirations for democratic reforms.

Upcoming Government Formation and Reforms

Following the parliamentary swearing-in, the formal cabinet formation will take place later today with the Prime Minister and his ministers taking their oaths. The Constitution Reform Commission has already submitted its recommendations, which include significant proposals such as establishing a two-tier legislature, imposing two-term limits for the Prime Minister and President, and expanding fundamental rights. Some of these proposed constitutional changes are expected to be put to a national referendum in February 2026.

Background to the Transition

The political shift began with the July 2024 mass uprising, which forced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government to fall. This created a constitutional vacuum, leading to the establishment of an extra-constitutional interim government under Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. This interim administration initiated a comprehensive reform agenda, including the formation of the Constitution Reform Commission, with the aim of institutional reform and holding national elections. The BNP's decisive win in the February 2026 general elections culminated in today's swearing-in ceremonies, ushering in a new political era for Bangladesh.

Key Takeaways

• New members of the Bangladesh Parliament and Prime Minister-designate Tarique Rahman were sworn in today, February 17, 2026.
• The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, will form the new government following its landslide victory in the 2026 general election.
• A 'Constitution Reform Commission' was also administered an oath, tasked with recommending changes for a new, democratic constitution.
• Tarique Rahman's priorities include ensuring rule of law, financial discipline, and national unity.
• President Mohammed Shahabuddin will administer the oath to the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers later today.

People Also Ask

• Who is the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh?

  Tarique Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is the Prime Minister-designate of Bangladesh. He was sworn in as a Member of Parliament today and is expected to take the oath as Prime Minister later.

• When was the new Bangladesh government sworn in?

  The new members of the Parliament of Bangladesh and Prime Minister-designate Tarique Rahman were sworn in today, February 17, 2026, marking the formation of the new government.

• What is the purpose of the Constitution Reform Commission?

  The Constitution Reform Commission aims to prepare a report on past constitutional failures and to create a roadmap for a new, inclusive, and democratic constitution, focusing on human dignity, social justice, and separation of powers.

• What led to the formation of this new government?

  This new government follows a landslide victory by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the 2026 general elections, which were held after an interim government took power following a student-led uprising in 2024 that ousted the previous administration.

Last updated: February 17, 2026 06:03 UTC