‘PM Modi should be invited, it’s general courtesy’: BNP leader ahead of Tarique Rahman swearing-in

Tarique Rehman

• BNP wins Bangladesh polls, set to form government after 20 years
• Tarique Rahman expected to become Prime Minister soon
• BNP leader suggests inviting PM Modi to the swearing-in ceremony

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As Bangladesh moves toward the formation of a new government, a senior figure in the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has indicated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ought to be present in Dhaka for the upcoming swearing-in ceremony of BNP chief Tarique Rahman.

Speaking in the capital after the party’s sweeping electoral performance, BNP leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan said it would be appropriate for regional leaders to attend the event. “I don't know exactly what they're doing, but hopefully they'll invite everyone. I don't know exactly, but he (PM Modi) should be invited. It's general courtesy. The organisers will do it. I hope the whole world will be with us,” he told reporters.

The BNP is set to return to power after almost twenty years, following a commanding mandate in the 13th national parliamentary polls conducted on February 12. Tarique Rahman is expected to assume the office of Prime Minister, consistent with the party’s earlier declaration.

According to figures released by the Election Commission of Bangladesh, outcomes have been confirmed for 297 constituencies. BNP contenders have secured 209 seats and are ahead in two constituencies where voting results remain suspended. Three additional seats have been won by BNP partners, taking the BNP-led alliance’s tally to 212.

In contrast, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has emerged victorious in 68 constituencies, while its partners in the 11-party combine have captured nine more, bringing that bloc’s total to 77 seats.

The official gazette listing the elected Members of Parliament has already been issued, as reported by Prothom Alo. With that step completed, attention has shifted to the transition of power.

The oath-taking ceremony will be conducted at Bangabhaban and administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, in accordance with constitutional requirements. Authorities have indicated that the event is likely to take place within three to four days.

Cabinet secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid confirmed that preparations are in place. “We hope the oath-taking ceremony will be held within the next three days, or at most four days,” he said, adding that arrangements are complete and could be advanced if necessary. Officials have also said that facilities are being made to accommodate around 1,000 invitees.

Milan underscored the BNP’s diplomatic stance by articulating the phrase “friends to all, malice to none,” reflecting the party’s broader foreign policy posture as it prepares to govern.

The developments come amid outreach from New Delhi. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman on the election outcome and reiterated India’s commitment to bilateral cooperation. In a post on X, he wrote, “Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India's continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples.”