Bangladesh Nationalist Party Nears Power as Election Results Emerge; Tarique Rahman Poised for Premiership

Dhaka. As results from the elections held in Bangladesh on Thursday begin to arrive, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is nearing power.

BBC's Ajadeh Moshiri noted that this marks a 'major change' in the political life of BNP leader Tarique Rahman. Rahman, who was in exile until recently, now has a clear path to becoming the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

This victory is an extraordinary comeback for Tarique Rahman. As of the beginning of 2024, he was in voluntary exile in London for a long time.

At that time, Sheikh Hasina's government had jailed thousands of BNP leaders and activists, and the party had boycotted the elections.

However, Rahman's political fortune took a new turn a few months ago after the student uprising initiated by the youth and students of Bangladesh overthrew the decades-long authoritarian rule of Sheikh Hasina.

Political analysts say that today the BNP is in a position to return to power due to the sacrifice and movement of the youth of Bangladesh. Rahman, who was politically sidelined during Hasina's tenure, has now emerged as the undisputed leader of the country.

Although the Election Commission has yet to announce the official results, local media outlets in Dhaka have already declared a resounding victory for the BNP. On Friday morning, people in the streets of Dhaka woke up to news of the BNP's lead and Tarique Rahman becoming Prime Minister.

Rahman, who has been commanding the party from London, is preparing to return home after 17 years and take direct charge of the country. The news states that this change is considered a significant turning point in the modern history of Bangladesh.