A new analysis in the US magazine The Diplomat describes Tarique Rahman as Bangladesh’s “probable future Prime Minister” following the 12 February elections.
The article, “An Interview With Tarique Rahman – Likely Bangladesh’s Next Prime Minister,” cites multiple pre-election polls indicating Rahman is positioned to become the next head of government.
The publication identifies him as the prospective premier, following other international media like Bloomberg, Time, and The Economist, which have all listed him as the leading contender ahead of the vote supervised by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus’s caretaker administration.
The analysis mentions a December poll showing support for BNP at approximately 70 percent, with its closest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami, at 19 percent.
A separate survey by private firm Innovision Consulting found over 47 percent of respondents believe Rahman could become prime mMinister, while 22.5 percent anticipate Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman taking the role.
The Diplomat highlights Gen-Z as a key voting bloc, stating “a large portion of voters in this election are from Gen Z, meaning Bangladesh’s youth will decide the next prime minister.”
“It also notes that “many Gen Z voters are attending the political programmes of the BNP, especially those helmed by party chairman Tarique Rahman.”
The interviewer spoke with Tarique Rahman on a bus journey to central Tangail for a campaign event after he attended a rally in northwestern Sirajganj, discussing his domestic and foreign policy plans.
On engaging with young voters, Tarique told The Diplomat, “We are prioritising job creation, technical education, sports, the IT sector, and job market, which I believe resonates strongly with Gen Z. If you look at today’s atmosphere, you’ll notice that most of the attendees in the meeting were Gen Z.”
He mentioned a platform called “The Plan,” where he listens to students from diverse universities and backgrounds share their views. “I truly enjoy connecting with them,” he said.
The article references criticism that the foreign policy under ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League was oriented toward India, while global powers like the US, China, and India watch Bangladesh closely.
Asked about his foreign policy approach, the BNP chairman replied, “our national interest must come first.”
“Our foreign policy will be a ‘Bangladesh First’ policy. We will prioritise an economy-based foreign policy that safeguards Bangladesh’s interests. We believe in mutual trust, mutual respect, and mutual benefit in our foreign relations,” he stated.
“No matter which countries we engage with, our national interest must come first.”
He said the BNP would foster peaceful social coexistence and mutual respect in politics, adding, “we will uphold the rule of law, freedom of speech, and ensure human rights for all.”
When reminded that some Gen Z voters favor the National Citizen Party (NCP) and may oppose the BNP in parliament and on the streets, Tarique Rahman responded, “I don’t feel challenged. We are a political party. We are going to the people with our plans and commitments, and others are doing the same. The people will decide which plan is better for them.”
He reiterated that his party is aligning with the priorities of young voters, focusing on jobs, technical skills, sports, IT, and the employment market.
Questioned on whether his goal of building a trillion-dollar economy is unrealistic – given Bangladesh’s 2025 GDP is about $475 billion and its reliance on inexpensive labor and garments – he answered, “Becoming a trillion-dollar economy is difficult but not impossible.”
He noted that 50 million jobs are needed for a population of 200 million, and that law and order must be restored, the economy strengthened, and businesses supported nationwide.
Tarique Rahman pointed out that Bangladesh’s economy currently rests on two pillars – garments and remittances – both established under previous BNP governments.
“We will emphasise the IT sector. At the same time, we will also pay attention to the semiconductor industry, light engineering, footwear, and SMEs,” he added.
He highlighted potential in the food sector, including processed foods, and said the country could produce and export ample fish and vegetables while exploring the creative economy.
On tackling loan defaults and money laundering, he said, “If we ensure strong financial governance, this problem can be solved. Our commitment is to build a transparent and accountable system where corruption will not be tolerated and abusers of power will be brought to justice.”
Regarding law and order, he said his party aims to create an environment where daily security is guaranteed, “people can return home without fear at night,” and the economy functions smoothly.
On climate action, Tarique stated, “We will begin, because we must begin. And we will responsibly manage resources and also will mobilise funds from the Global Climate Fund.”
He pledged that a BNP government would focus on excavating 20,000 kilometers of canals and planting 250 million trees.
“The reality is stark. In the past, digging just 20 feet was enough to access groundwater, but today even drilling 300 feet often fails to reach water. So, is this really ‘too ambitious’ or simply unavoidable?” he remarked.
Outlining his key pledges, Tarique Rahman said, “we will work to implement our 31-point charter. In particular, we have identified seven core priorities such as the family card, farmer card, health care, employment, education, and we will place special emphasis on these issues.”
“We will bring positive change to society by addressing the people’s interests and aspirations. We will uphold the aspirations of the people. We will establish the power of the people – this is my commitment to the people of the country,” he concluded.
