Tarique Rahman’s Crushing Victory !

By: Abdullah Yousuf , Founder BNP Australia

February 12, 2026, stands as a monumental and significant day in the political history of Bangladesh. After 17 long years of waiting, struggle, sacrifice, and immense hardship, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) achieved an unprecedented and landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections, held in a fair, neutral, and festive atmosphere. This election is not merely a party win; it is a transformative moment in the nation’s political psyche a collective expression of long-suppressed expectations, frustrations, and aspirations.

This result is more than an electoral success; it is a turning point in the nation’s political trajectory that will hold a special place in the history books of future generations. It reflects a reality that transcends political discourse to become a part of social psychology.

The international community has congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his appointment. Among the well-wishers are Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Senator Dave Sharma.

A Historic Message: Country and People First

Following the confirmation of victory, the Acting Chairman of BNP and current Honorable Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, delivered a timeless message to the nation:

“We before I, the country before us, and the people before power Bangladesh above all.”

This brief yet profound message signals a new political philosophy where the state and its citizens take precedence over individuals or parties. In the context of a history marred by personality cults and political vengeance, this statement redefines the relationship between public expectation and leadership accountability.

The Three Pillars of Success

The victory was catalysed by three primary factors:

1. The courageous return of Tarique Rahman after 17 years in exile.
2. The emotional national mourning following the passing of party chief and former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia.
3. The BNP’s modern and specific ’31-Point’ state reform program.

By the morning of February 13, results showed the BNP securing a two-thirds majority, returning to governance after 20 years.

Leadership and Discipline

Upon victory, Honorable Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued strict instructions to party members, forbidding victory processions to prevent public suffering. Instead, he requested nationwide prayers (Doa Mahfil). He has emphasized social harmony and the rejection of political vengeance.

Vision for State Reform: Key Demands

The expectations from the new government are far-reaching. As representatives of the diaspora, we look forward to progress in the following areas:

1. Judiciary and Governance

• Ensuring a swift and neutral trial for the assassination of Martyr President Ziaur Rahman.
• Investigating negligence in the medical treatment of Begum Khaleda Zia and holding those responsible accountable.
• Ensuring justice for the victims of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings during the previous autocratic regime.

2. Administrative and Economic Reforms

• Appointing patriotic and competent individuals at every level of administration, free from foreign influence.
• Implementing CCTV surveillance in all offices and a one-week deadline for file approvals to curb corruption.
• Publishing a “White Paper” on the financial looting carried out under the guise of development by the previous government.

3. Education and Values

• Considering mandatory Quranic education and basic disciplinary/military training in educational institutions.
• Providing government-funded Hajj/Umrah opportunities for underprivileged Imams and Muezzins.

4. Protection for Expatriates (NRBs)

• One-Stop Service: A single portal for business approvals for expatriates.
• Investment Protection Law: Special laws to prevent the illegal occupation of properties owned by NRBs.
• Airport Reforms: Modernizing Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with smart immigration, AI-based complaint systems, and strict monitoring by Executive Magistrates and a specialized task force (Army) if necessary to end harassment.

5. Embassy Reforms and Connectivity

• Digital Embassies: Enabling online passport renewal, NID correction, and Power of Attorney services.
• Professionalism: Ensuring embassy staff are tech-savvy and appointed based on merit, not political affiliation.
• Direct Flights: Establishing direct Sydney-Dhaka flights via Biman Bangladesh Airlines to ease the struggle of the Australian-Bangladeshi community.

 

Conclusion

Tarique Rahman’s victory is the victory of 170 million people. His modern vision encapsulated in the phrase “I have a plan, I have a dream” has inspired a new generation. With the support of his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman, his journey has gained even greater momentum.

February 12, 2026, is the day the people decided to believe again. In politics, sometimes belief is the greatest revolution of all. On behalf of the ‘Suprovat Sydney’ family the only Bangladeshi newspaper from Australia that stood firmly against fascism for last 17 years we offer our heartiest congratulations on this crushing historic victory.