Maps
Magazine

WORLD NEWS

Muhammad Yunus Steps Down, Hands Power to Elected BNP Government
Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus resigns, congratulates Tarique Rahman & BNP on landslide win. Country votes on “July Charter” reforms as democracy strengthens post-uprising.
ND
by News Desk
2026-02-16
Muhammad Yunus Steps Down, Hands Power to Elected BNP Government

Bangladesh’s interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus has formally stepped down, handing over power to the newly elected government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its leader Tarique Rahman. Speaking in a farewell broadcast, the 85-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner urged the nation to uphold democracy, freedom of speech, and fundamental rights.

Yunus returned from self-imposed exile in August 2024, shortly after the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina’s government by a student-led uprising. “That was the day of great liberation. What a day of joy it was! Bangladeshis across the world shed tears of happiness,” he said.

Congratulating the BNP on a landslide electoral victory, Yunus noted: “The people, voters, political parties, and stakeholder institutions linked to the election have set a commendable example. This election has set a benchmark for future elections.”

The BNP alliance won 212 seats, while the Jamaat-i-Islami-led alliance secured 77. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman conceded, pledging to act as a principled opposition. Despite some campaign-period violence that claimed five lives and injured over 600, voting day passed peacefully, and the nation has largely responded calmly to the results.

Alongside the elections, a national referendum approved sweeping democratic reforms known as the “July Charter.” Key proposals include term limits for prime ministers, creation of an upper house of parliament, stronger presidential powers, and greater judicial independence. While the charter is binding on the winning parties, final ratification will require parliamentary approval.

Yunus reflected on his interim tenure: “We did not start from zero — we started from a deficit. Sweeping away the ruins, we rebuilt institutions and set the course for reforms.”

Newly elected lawmakers are expected to be sworn in on Tuesday, after which Tarique Rahman will assume office as Bangladesh’s next prime minister, marking a new chapter in the country’s democratic journey.
Tagged:

Bangladesh

BNP

Democracy

MuhammadYunus

TariqueRahman
Share News: