After nearly two decades, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has secured a commanding majority in the Jatiya Sangsad, returning to power in Bangladesh. On February 17, Tarique Rahman, scion of one of the country’s most powerful political dynasties, assumed office as prime minister after 17 years in exile. Yet this electoral triumph unfolded under unusual circumstances. The Awami League, historically a principal contender in the nation’s politics, was barred from participating. Its leader, Sheikh Hasina Wajid, remains in exile. The absence of the BNP’s traditional rival rendered the contest less competitive and far more predictable. Now, having secured a landslide victory without its historical rival, the BNP faces a defining test. Bangladesh’s politics has long been scarred by vendettas, iron-fisted rule, crackdowns and cycles of repression that have burdened its hardworking millions.
The moment calls for a decisive break from that past and a turn towards stability, internal peace and economic renewal. Tarique Rahman has sought to project himself as a more inclusive and people-centred leader, less inclined towards confrontation. His public statements emphasising unity, democracy and national welfare are also a departure from the past, offering promise to hopefully lead Bangladesh to democratic values and stability. Whether this new chapter fulfils that promise will shape Bangladesh’s political horizon for years to come.
Qamer Soomro
Shikarpur
