Bangladesh’s New Cabinet: Tarek Rahman Set to Take Oath as Prime Minister

Public Vox News February 17, 2026

Published: 16 Feb 2026 | Dhaka| public vox news

BNP Chairman Tarek Rahman is scheduled to be sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh tomorrow, Tuesday, alongside the members of his cabinet. The size and composition of the new cabinet has sparked widespread interest among the public and political observers.

According to senior party sources, the cabinet is expected to consist of 35 to 37 members, including 26–27 full ministers and 9–10 state ministers. A few additional appointments may be made at the last moment. The party leadership aims to keep the cabinet smaller compared to the 2001 BNP government, which had 60 members and faced heavy criticism for its large size.

The cabinet will feature a mix of experienced and new leaders, prioritizing competence and expertise. Key positions are expected to be held by senior leaders including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Ameer Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, and Salahuddin Ahmed, while others such as Hafiz Uddin Ahmed and former Education Minister Osman Faruk are also under consideration. Discussions are ongoing regarding the inclusion of central and allied party leaders, youth representatives, district leaders, and experts.

Lessons from the Past

Political analysts note that BNP’s previous government (2001–2006) faced criticism over mismanagement and allegations of corruption in ministries such as Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Shipping, Housing and Public Works, Commerce, and Communication. Controversies included faulty electricity transmission lines, unusual price hikes of essential commodities, and mishandling of law enforcement, including incidents involving RAB and major criminal cases.

To restore public trust, the new government plans to include honest, capable, and visionary individuals in the cabinet, in line with BNP’s election promises of good governance and citizen-centric policies.

Moving Towards National Unity

Following a decisive electoral victory, Tarek Rahman emphasized national unity and refraining from retaliatory politics. His outreach to leaders of other parties, including visits to Shafiqul Rahman of Jamaat and Nahid Islam of the National Citizens Party (NCP), has been seen as a positive step towards fostering political cohesion and peace.

Economic signaling and efficient governance are expected to be immediate priorities for the new administration. Analysts stress that the composition and quality of the cabinet will serve as a key indicator of how effectively BNP can implement its promises for a transparent and accountable government.

“Including competent and committed individuals in the cabinet is essential to ensure the rule of law and good governance,” said political analyst Hossain Zillur Rahman, former advisor to the caretaker government.

The new cabinet is being closely watched as Bangladesh anticipates a fresh start under BNP leadership, 19 years after the party last held power.