Dhaka: The incoming government of Bangladesh, spearheaded by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman, is now scheduled to be sworn in this coming Tuesday, Feb. 17.

In a notable diplomatic outreach, the Chief Adviser of the interim administration, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has invited leaders from 13 nations, including regional powers India, China, and Pakistan, to attend the landmark ceremony. According to diplomatic sources cited by Prothom Alo, the guest list further includes Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives, and Bhutan.

The inauguration of the new cabinet is set to take place Tuesday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament.

Diplomatic Overtures

On Saturday, BNP leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan expressed his desire for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the event, emphasising the party's "friends to all, malice to none" foreign policy doctrine.

"I don't know exactly what they're doing, but hopefully they'll invite everyone," Milan told reporters in Dhaka. "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."

The BNP has already formally acknowledged Modi for his congratulatory message following the party’s sweeping electoral win. In a post on X, the party thanked the Indian leader for his recognition of Rahman’s leadership, stating the victory reflects the "trust and confidence" of the Bangladeshi people.

Commitment to Stability

Looking ahead, the BNP signalled its intent to foster a constructive relationship with New Delhi based on "mutual respect" and a "shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity." Prime Minister Modi had earlier pledged India's continued support for a "democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh."

A Historic Shift

The general election held on Feb. 12, 2026, represents a turning point for the nation of 170 million:

  • First Post-Uprising Vote: The election follows the 2024 mass protests that ended the long-term rule of Sheikh Hasina.
  • Landslide Mandate: The BNP secured an absolute majority, winning well over the 151 seats required in the 300-seat Jatiya Sangsad.
  • New Opposition: The Islamist-led Jamaat-e-Islami alliance will serve as the primary opposition.

Voter turnout was estimated at 59%, coinciding with a constitutional referendum on governance reforms. As the interim government prepares to hand over power, the international community is watching for signs of democratic renewal in one of the world's most populous countries.

With inputs from ANI