♦ Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman was sworn in as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister on 17 February 2026. He is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and assassinated President Ziaur Rahman. Breaking with tradition, the swearing‑in ceremony was held under the open sky at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, the national parliament building, instead of the Bangabhaban, the president’s official residence where such events are usually organised.

♦ President Mohammed Shahabuddin officiated as Rahman and his cabinet took their oaths.

♦ Rahman’s BNP secured a commanding two‑thirds majority, returning to power after nearly two decades. The Islamist party Jamaat‑e‑Islami, contesting its first election since a 2013 ban was lifted following Hasina’s ouster, won a record 68 seats.

♦ Hasina’s Awami League party was banned from contesting after its registration was revoked by the Election Commission.