DHAKA: Long seen as the heir to a powerful political dynasty Tarique Rahman has been sworn in as Prime Minister of Bangladesh marking a dramatic political comeback after 17 years in exile.

The leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Rahman assumed office following his party’s sweeping victory in parliamentary elections held on February 12. The BNP secured more than a two thirds majority consolidating its return to power a year and a half after the uprising that toppled former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

In his inaugural address Rahman dedicated the victory to citizens who aspired to and sacrificed for democracy pledging to improve governance. Widely known as Tarique Zia he is the son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia.

Rahman’s rise follows years of controversy including corruption allegations and legal battles he maintains were politically motivated. After Hasina’s removal he was acquitted of the most serious charges against him.

Returning from United Kingdom in December Rahman now faces what he calls an immense challenge: rebuilding political stability and restoring public confidence in a nation shaped by decades of rivalry between dominant political families.