Following a remarkable victory in Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary election, Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), will be sworn in as Prime Minister on Tuesday. Contrary to tradition, the oath will be administered at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad instead of the usual location, Bangabhaban.
At 4 PM, President Mohammad Shahabuddin will administer the swearing-in of the new cabinet. Earlier in the day, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin will inaugurate all 297 newly elected members of parliament.
Subsequently, the BNP will officially elect its leader at a parliamentary caucus meeting. The President will then invite them to form the government. The BNP secured 209 out of 297 seats, while Jamaat-e-Islami won 68 seats.
Sheikh Hasina's Awami League was not allowed to participate in the general elections. Tarique Rahman will now shoulder the responsibilities of Prime Minister, succeeding the interim leader, Muhammad Yunus.
Key Concerns Tarique Rahman Aims to Address
In a press conference following the elections, Rahman emphasized the need for national unity and peace. He expressed concerns over the country's frail economy, institutional pressures, and challenging law and order situations. He cautioned that heightened societal divisions could undermine democracy.
Who is Invited to the Swearing-In Ceremony?
Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, will represent India at the ceremony. Representatives from the Maldives, Turkey, and Sri Lanka will also be present. The BNP has invited nearly 1,200 domestic and international guests.
Invited dignitaries include the President of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, Turkey's Undersecretary Beris Ekinci, and Sri Lanka's Minister of Health and Public Relations, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
