Bangladesh’s political landscape has shifted dramatically as Tarique Rahman, son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, has been elected the country’s new prime minister. After more than a decade in exile in the United Kingdom, he returned to contest and win the 13th national election. His rise follows a turbulent history, including severe injuries during detention under the 2008 military-backed government. The article describes his journey from a grassroots BNP activist to the nation’s top leadership, emphasizing his decision to seek votes based on reform plans rather than family legacy.

The commentary highlights the challenges Rahman faces, including widespread corruption, weakened law enforcement morale, and politicization of state institutions. It urges him to prioritize anti-corruption measures, national unity, and transformation of Bangladesh’s economy from labor-based to knowledge-based through investment in education, research, and skilled workforce development. The author stresses that success will depend on equitable wealth distribution and avoiding the concentration of power and wealth that led to the previous government’s downfall.

If Rahman can unite the nation, eliminate corruption, and build a globally competitive economy, the article concludes, he may truly become a “people’s prime minister.”