Minority Leaders Nitai Chowdhury, Dipen Dewan Join Rahman Cabinet

Bangladesh's political landscape shifted dramatically as Tariq Rahman, BNP chief, unveiled a 25-member cabinet featuring minority representatives Nitai Roy Chowdhury and Dipen Dewan after the party's dominant win in the 13th national polls. Sworn in Tuesday in Dhaka, the lineup highlights strategic inclusivity.

Chowdhury, a veteran from Magura, outpolled his Jamaat rival decisively on February 12, 2026, securing a mandate with 147,896 votes. Hailed as BNP's senior advisor, he surprised many by taking the oath over speculated pick Goyeshwar Roy, a Hindu stalwart from past Khaleda Zia administrations.

Dewan, hailing from Chakma-dominated Rangamati, overcame a strong independent challenger, bolstering minority voices in the southeast. His Buddhist roots, occasionally linked to Hinduism, add layers to the cabinet's diversity.

Key figures like Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikrom, Dr. Khalilur Rahman, and Afroza Khanam Rita round out the ministers, sworn by election officials in the absence of parliamentary leadership. This snub to Yunus's reform council underscores BNP's assertive stance.

The oath-taking at Parliament House sets the tone for governance focused on reconciliation. With Rahman at the helm remotely, the cabinet promises robust policymaking, addressing long-standing minority concerns and economic recovery in a polarized nation.