Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the Prime Minister of the country on Tuesday. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath at a ceremony held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad building in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The BNP returned to power after nearly two decades, having last governed the country from 2001 to 2006. The party secured victory in the 13th National Parliament election, paving the way for its new administration. The new government comprises a 49-member council of ministers. Of these, 25 are cabinet ministers, 24 are state ministers.
The cabinet features a large number of first-time ministers. Among the 25 cabinet ministers, 17 are new faces, while all 24 state ministers are serving in the role for the first time. Prime Minister Rahman himself is entering the cabinet for the first time.
Leaders, activists and supporters of various BNP wings gathered from across the country, including the capital Dhaka, to witness the swearing-in ceremony at the South Plaza of the parliament complex.
From around 2:30 pm, a large number of party supporters assembled along Manik Mia Avenue, chanting slogans. Several digital screens and sound systems were set up along the road to allow crowds to watch the ceremony. A stage was also set-up at the other end of the avenue for a cultural programme.
