BNP’s Tarique Rahman Puts Bangladesh First in Foreign Policy Shift

Tarique Rahman, leader of Bangladesh's Bangladesh Nationalist Party, spoke on Saturday about the country's foreign policy after his party won a large majority in parliamentary elections. The win came in the first vote since the 2024 uprising that removed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. Rahman said the interests of Bangladesh's people would guide all decisions, including relations with neighbors like India. He made these remarks in his first public address since the election results.

Background

Bangladesh held elections this week, marking a big change in its politics. The BNP, under Rahman, took more than two-thirds of the seats in the 300-member parliament. Official counts show the BNP-led group won 212 seats, while an alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami got 77. Hasina's Awami League could not run because of a ban.

Rahman had lived in exile in Britain for 17 years before returning home in December. He is the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The 2024 uprising by young protesters, often called the Gen Z revolution, led to Hasina's fall after 15 years in office. That period saw up to 1,400 deaths in protests and thousands of other cases of people going missing under her rule.

The country now faces a weak economy, damaged institutions, and broken law and order, as Rahman noted. Institutions like the military, courts, and police were seen as tools of Hasina's party. The election shows people want democracy back, but youth power from the uprising has limits, with BNP taking the main votes.

India had close ties with Hasina, especially on security. Past BNP governments had more tension with New Delhi, like concerns over groups using Bangladesh land in the early 2000s. Relations cooled after Hasina left, with issues like a cricketer's contract cancelation sparking backlash.

Key Details

In his speech, Rahman stressed putting Bangladesh first. He answered questions on India by saying the people's needs would shape policy.

'The interests of Bangladesh and its people comes first and it will determine our foreign policy.' – Tarique Rahman

He dedicated the win to those who fought for democracy.

'This victory belongs to Bangladesh, belongs to democracy, this victory belongs to people who aspired to and have sacrificed for democracy.' – Tarique Rahman

Rahman called for all groups to work together.

'Our paths and opinions may differ, but in the interest of the country, we must remain united.' – Tarique Rahman

Election Results and Reactions

The BNP's strong win gives it control to form the government. Jamaat-e-Islami at first questioned the vote but then accepted the loss. Its leader said the party would act as a peaceful opposition.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Rahman to congratulate him. Modi posted online about strong ties and common goals. Rahman thanked India and hopes for better relations.

Rahman's adviser, Humayun Kabir, spoke about problems in the region. He pointed to growing extremism in India and Pakistan, saying Bangladesh wants balanced ties with all, not just one country.

In a separate talk, Rahman listed top goals: rule of law, fixing money matters, and bringing people together. He wants to fix old deals with India that he sees as unfair, like water from the Teesta River. The BNP plans to join a UN water pact for fair shares.

Rahman met India's foreign minister recently, a sign both sides want to move forward. But issues remain: border safety, people crossing borders, river water, and protecting minorities.

What This Means

Rahman's words point to a shift where Bangladesh looks out for itself more. Ties with India may change from the close partnership under Hasina. New Delhi wants good relations but faces public anger in Bangladesh over past support for Hasina.

The BNP eyes stronger links with the US, its top buyer of goods, and China, the biggest trade partner. Rahman mentioned buying US planes and energy tech to cut trade gaps. On China, plans call for deeper trade.

At home, Rahman must heal divides. The July National Charter pushes for changes to stop another strongman rule, covering the constitution, elections, and institutions. With Jamaat-e-Islami gaining seats, Islamist voices grow, which could shape policies.

The economy needs quick fixes. Rahman sees a reboot for South Asia's second-largest economy. Unity is key, as he said division weakens the nation. His government starts with big tasks: rebuild trust, steady finances, and keep order.

Border issues and water talks will test early days. Rahman stresses neighbors matter but Bangladesh comes first. Modi's quick call shows India wants to adapt. Public views in Bangladesh against too much lean to India could limit how far ties warm.

Rahman, at 60, leads a new era after exile. His speech sets a tone of caution on outside matters and focus inside. The win ends months of unrest but starts hard work on daily problems for millions.