Bangladesh PM-in-waiting Rahman appeals for unity

By Newsflash and Agencies

Bangladesh’s prime minister-in-waiting, Tarique Rahman, has called on citizens to unite, dedicating his sweeping electoral victory to those “who sacrificed for democracy.”

Speaking on Saturday, February 14, in his first address since the elections, Rahman emphasized the importance of cohesion across political divides. “Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united,” he said. “I firmly believe that national unity is a collective strength, while division is a weakness.”

Landmark election results

The Bangladesh Election Commission published the official results following Thursday’s landmark parliamentary vote. The BNP-led alliance won 212 of the 299 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led coalition took 77. The National Citizen Party, driven by youth activists who played a key role in toppling Sheikh Hasina, secured only six of the 30 seats it contested, highlighting the difficulty of converting protest momentum into lasting electoral support. The Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was barred from participation in the vote.

Opposition leader Shafiqur Rahman of Jamaat-e-Islami initially raised concerns over vote “inconsistencies and fabrications” but later accepted the overall outcome, pledging to serve as a vigilant, principled, and peaceful opposition.

Global recognition

Interim leader and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus congratulated Rahman on his “landslide victory,” expressing confidence in his ability to guide Bangladesh toward stability, inclusiveness, and development. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also extended congratulations to Rahman and the people of Bangladesh, noting the United States looks forward to cooperation with the newly elected government.

Rahman, 60, returned to Bangladesh in December after 17 years in exile in the United Kingdom. His father, former President Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated in 1981, while his mother, Khaleda Zia, served three terms as prime minister. Reflecting on his victory, Rahman said, “This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy,” delivering his message in English before switching to Bangla.