Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir takes oath as Bangladesh's President
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was sworn in as Bangladesh's 23rd President on August 21, 2026, after winning the first contested presidential election in 35 years. He defeated Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed and subsequently administered the oath of office to five new cabinet members, expanding the cabinet to 55 members.
Why it matters
This event marks a significant shift in Bangladesh's political landscape, ending decades of uncontested presidential polls and potentially signaling a more dynamic democratic process. The new cabinet appointments will also influence the country's governance and policy direction.
Veteran politician Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was on Friday (August 21, 2026) sworn in as Bangladesh's 23rd President.
Mr. Alamgir, a longtime secretary general of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was administered the oath of office by Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) Acting Speaker Kayser Kamal at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban, the official office-cum-residence of the head of state.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman, former Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Cabinet ministers, top army brass and several other officials were present at the oath ceremony.
After assuming the office of the president, 78-year-old Alamgir administered the oath of office to the five new faces in the Cabinet. The Cabinet now has 55 members, including the Prime Minister.
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