Prime Minister Tarique Rahman Honours National Heroes and Parents

In a poignant display of statecraft and personal remembrance, the newly inaugurated Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, led his Cabinet on a series of solemn visits to the nation’s most revered landmarks on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. Following his historic victory in the Thirteenth General Election, the Prime Minister’s itinerary blended the formal duties of a head of government with the private devotions of a son, marking a symbolic start to his administration’s five-year mandate.

A Tribute to the Martyrs

The day’s proceedings commenced at 11:00 am at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar. Under a clear spring sky, Prime Minister Rahman stood in silent contemplation, laying a floral wreath to honour the millions who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 Liberation War.

Accompanied by his full Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister participated in several ceremonial acts:

• Wreath Laying: A formal tribute at the altar of the memorial.

• Tree Plantation: The Prime Minister planted a sapling on the memorial grounds, symbolising the growth and renewal of the nation under the new government.

• Signature of the Visitor’s Book: A tradition where the head of state records their reflections on the nation’s heritage.

Honours at the Mazar of National Leaders

By noon, the motorcade arrived at Zia Udyan in the capital. Here, the atmosphere shifted from national mourning to a more personal homage. Prime Minister Rahman offered Fateha (prayers) at the graves of his parents: the late President Ziaur Rahman and the former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

The visit to the Zia Udyan was not merely a family affair but a signal of the political lineage the new government intends to uphold. Cabinet members joined the Prime Minister in paying their respects, reinforcing the unity of the BNP-led administration.

Schedule of the Inaugural Governing Day

Transition to Governance

Following these ceremonial duties, the focus shifted rapidly toward the mechanics of the state. The Prime Minister and his ministers departed for the Bangladesh Secretariat to convene the first official Cabinet meeting of the new term. This session is expected to set the legislative agenda and address immediate economic priorities.

The day concluded with a high-level briefing involving the nation’s top bureaucrats. During this exchange of views with the Secretaries, Prime Minister Rahman is believed to have outlined his vision for administrative transparency and the efficient delivery of public services. This follows the swearing-in ceremony held on Tuesday at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, where President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath of office to the new executive branch.