Tarique Rahman’s formal assumption of the chairmanship of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) marks a long-anticipated and constitutionally grounded transition in the party’s leadership. After serving nearly seven years as Acting Chairman, his elevation is neither abrupt nor controversial; rather, it reflects continuity within the party structure following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s announcement after an emergency meeting of the National Standing Committee has put to rest any ambiguity regarding leadership. As per the BNP constitution, once the post of Chairman falls vacant, the Senior Vice Chairman assumes the role for the remainder of the term. Tarique Rahman had long fulfilled this responsibility in practice, steering the party from exile during a difficult period marked by repression, organisational strain and political uncertainty. The formalisation of his role therefore aligns with both the letter and spirit of the party’s charter.
Yet while the transition was expected, its timing is politically momentous. Tarique Rahman takes charge at a juncture when Bangladesh is preparing for a crucial national election and the BNP stands as a leading contender for state power. Various political assessments and surveys suggest that the party enjoys a strong electoral position across the 300 parliamentary constituencies. With that prospect comes not only opportunity, but also an immense burden of responsibility.
Bangladesh today faces deep structural challenges. Years of authoritarian governance under Sheikh Hasina have left scars across institutions, the economy and social cohesion. Democratic norms were weakened, public trust eroded, and key state institutions politicised. Whoever forms the next government will inherit the task of rebuilding a fractured polity while navigating economic stress, global uncertainty and rising public expectations.
For the BNP, this means that electoral victory alone will not suffice. The party must demonstrate readiness to govern in a vastly more complex environment than before. Policy clarity, institutional reform, economic recovery and restoration of democratic accountability will be central tests. How the BNP conducts itself before the election—through candidate selection, alliances, messaging and commitment to peaceful democratic processes—will be as important as its conduct after the polls.
Tarique Rahman’s leadership will therefore be scrutinised closely. His political career has evolved over decades, from grassroots organising to strategic planning at the national level. He has overseen the party during one of its most challenging phases, keeping it intact despite sustained pressure. That experience may serve him well now. At the same time, the demands of the coming period require not only experience, but also wisdom, inclusiveness, integrity and a clear vision for a modern, democratic Bangladesh.
The BNP is not short of seasoned leaders or capable professionals. Harnessing that collective strength, encouraging internal democracy and engaging constructively with civil society will be critical. In an interconnected global landscape, governance challenges transcend borders; economic resilience, diplomatic balance and social harmony demand skillful, forward-looking leadership.
As Tarique Rahman begins his tenure as BNP Chairman, he inherits both a legacy and a mandate. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but also rich with possibility. We welcome his new journey and hope that under his leadership, the BNP rises to the occasion—serving not just partisan interests, but the broader aspirations of the Bangladeshi people for democracy, stability and renewal.
