Tarique Rahman Oath Ceremony: Dhaka is going to witness a big political moment on 17th February. Bangladesh Nationalist Party President Tariq Rahman will take oath as the next Prime Minister of the country. With this, BNP will formally return to power. The ceremony is likely to be held in the southern courtyard of the Bangladesh Parliament House and will be watched by the entire South Asia.
According to NDTV report, the day will start with the swearing-in of newly elected MPs. After this the new Prime Minister and Cabinet will be sworn in. Tariq Rehman will be administered the oath by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. This will signal a change of power as per the constitutional process after the general elections.
BNP called it a historic day
Talking to a news channel, BNP spokesperson described February 17 as a historic day for Bangladesh. He said the formation of the new government will mark the beginning of a new political chapter after a long and closely monitored election period. He also said that there will be special attention to the presence of international leaders in Dhaka.
Invitation sent to leaders of 13 countries
Chief Advisor to the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus has invited the heads of 13 countries to attend the oath ceremony. The invited countries include India, China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives and Bhutan.
All eyes on India’s participation
India’s invitation holds special significance. According to NDTV report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been formally invited, but his chances of attending are slim due to his pre-scheduled engagement with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on the same day. In his place, Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar or Vice President CP Radhakrishnan can represent India at the ceremony.
Important signal for regional politics
Diplomatic experts believe that India’s participation will be watched carefully. This will indicate in which direction India-Bangladesh relations will move under the leadership of BNP. Relations with New Delhi had been complex during previous BNP governments, but in recent statements party leaders have emphasized regional cooperation, trade, connectivity and stability.
