After Sweeping Poll Victory, Tarique Rahman Signals Balanced Diplomacy and Call for Political Calm in Bangladesh
Fresh from a decisive electoral mandate, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman — widely expected to assume the premiership — offered his first public comments on Saturday, stressing that every foreign policy decision under his leadership would be guided primarily by Bangladesh’s national priorities.
Speaking to a packed gathering of local and international journalists at Dhaka’s Intercontinental Hotel, Rahman chose a restrained tone, addressing sensitive political and diplomatic questions without confrontation.
Extradition, opposition, and law
When asked about Dhaka’s request to bring back former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Rahman said the matter would be handled strictly through legal channels.
On concerns over cases and alleged pressure faced by Awami League supporters since the previous government’s removal, he maintained that all actions would remain within the framework of the law.
The BNP secured a two-thirds majority in the February 12 election, winning 209 of the 300 parliamentary seats.
Signals to neighbours and global partners
Sources indicated the party has suggested that the interim administration led by Chief Adviser Professor Mohammad Yunus invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for February 17, after completion of formal parliamentary procedures.
Traditionally, Bangladesh has not invited foreign leaders to such ceremonies, making the move notable.
Rahman’s advisers said regional leaders may be invited, reflecting a diplomatic opening after months of tense relations with New Delhi.
Modi was the first international leader to personally congratulate Rahman even beforethe official results were declared.
On regional cooperation, Rahman expressed willingness to discuss reviving SAARC with member nations.
Regarding Beijing, he described China as a development partner but emphasised that any project — including participation in the Belt and Road Initiative — would be assessed solely on whether it benefits Bangladesh’s economy.
Economy and governance top priorities
Rahman identified economic recovery and public safety as immediate challenges. He accused the previous administration of weakening institutions through politicisation and pledged reforms aimed at improving governance.
Addressing speculation about election manipulation, he remarked that public support — not engineering — delivered victory, drawing enthusiastic reactions from party supporters present.
Appeal for restraint after victory
Breaking from Bangladesh’s history of post-poll reprisals, Rahman urged party workers to avoid triumphalism and maintain calm nationwide.
He said the victory had been marked with prayers rather than celebratory marches to prevent unrest.
He emphasised that violence or intimidation against any group — regardless of religion, politics or identity — would not be tolerated, a message aimed partly at reassuring minority communities and political opponents.
Rahman also called on rival parties to cooperate in rebuilding the country, arguing that unity strengthens the nation while division weakens it.
Political landscape
Jamaat-e-Islami emerged as the second-largest bloc with 68 seats, rising to 77 with allies. The Awami League did not contest the election, which saw a turnout of 59.44%.
With a commanding parliamentary majority and a promise of institutional reform, Rahman now faces the task of translating electoral momentum into governance while stabilising both domestic politics and foreign relations.
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