In a dramatic turn of events marking Bangladesh’s return to democratic governance, Tarique Rahman, the chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has led his party to a resounding landslide victory in the 13th general parliamentary elections held on February 12, 2026. This historic poll, the first since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted longtime leader Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League government, positions Rahman as the prime minister-designate, ending nearly two decades of political exile and ushering in a new era for the South Asian nation.
Born on November 20, 1965, in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman—also known as Tarique Zia—is the eldest son of Bangladesh’s founding figures: former President and independence war hero Ziaur Rahman, and three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Often referred to as the “Dark Prince,” a moniker stemming from allegations of wielding significant informal influence during the BNP-led coalition government from 2001 to 2006 (when his mother held the premiership), Rahman was accused of operating a parallel power center from his residence, Hawa Bhaban. These claims, along with corruption charges leveled against him during a 2007 military-backed caretaker regime, prompted his self-imposed exile in London starting around 2008.
Rahman spent nearly 18 years abroad, during which the BNP faced severe repression under Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule. His fortunes shifted dramatically following his mother’s death in late 2025. Returning to Bangladesh on December 25, 2025—greeted by massive crowds of supporters—Rahman assumed the BNP chairmanship and quickly emerged as the party’s prime ministerial face. His return coincided with the suspension of the Awami League’s registration, barring it from contesting, and widespread public demand for change after years of authoritarian governance, economic challenges, and political instability.
The February 12, 2026, election proved a resounding endorsement of Rahman’s leadership and the BNP’s platform. Unofficial results and media projections showed the BNP securing a decisive majority—reports indicating between 185 and over 209 seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad (well beyond the 151 needed for a simple majority, with some sources citing a two-thirds supermajority). Rivals like Jamaat-e-Islami trailed significantly. Rahman himself won convincingly in both constituencies he contested: Dhaka-17 (with around 72,699 votes) and Bogura-6 (over 216,000 votes).
The vote, described as largely peaceful and festive with high turnout, reflected a generational shift influenced by Gen Z activism from the 2024 uprising. It has been hailed as a pivotal step toward restoring stability, democratic institutions, rule of law, and economic revival. Rahman has emphasized a commitment to “clean politics,” zero tolerance for corruption, no political revenge, and inclusive governance under the slogan “Bangladesh before all.”
International reactions have been swift and positive. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Rahman on X, expressing hopes for strengthened bilateral ties. The United States and others have welcomed the outcome as an “historic victory.” As final official results are formalized, Rahman is set to be sworn in as prime minister, marking the BNP’s return to power after 20 years and closing a turbulent chapter in Bangladesh’s political history.
The “Dark Prince” of old has transformed into a figure of redemption for many supporters, ready to lead a nation eager for renewal. Whether his administration delivers on promises of reform and unity will define the next phase of Bangladesh’s journey.
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