tarique rahman — Tarique Rahman, acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has returned from nearly 17 years in exile, solidifying his position as a key player in the upcoming elections. This homecoming, which took place on Thursday, is expected to galvanise supporters as Rahman prepares to contest for the prime ministership in February.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Hundreds of thousands of jubilant supporters gathered to welcome Rahman, lining the route from Dhaka’s airport to the reception venue. Enthusiastic crowds waved BNP flags, carried placards, and chanted slogans under the watchful eyes of security forces. The atmosphere was electric, marking a significant moment for the party and its followers.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
At 60 years old, Rahman has spent the last 15 years in London, where he has led the BNP as acting chairman since 2018. His return comes at a critical juncture for Bangladesh, a nation of nearly 175 million people preparing for elections under an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. These elections are seen as vital for restoring political stability after nearly two years of unrest.
As Rahman addressed the throngs of supporters, he opened his speech with “Beloved Bangladesh,” emphasising his commitment to uniting people of all faiths for a safe and inclusive nation. He spoke of his vision for a democratic future grounded in economic strength, calling for cooperation across all communities, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. His repetition of the phrase “We want peace in the country” resonated deeply with the crowd, signalling his intent to mend divisions.
Rahman’s return was made possible after legal barriers were lifted following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year. For years, Rahman faced multiple criminal charges that kept him from returning home. However, as the political environment shifted, the legal landscape has changed, allowing him to step back onto Bangladeshi soil amid a backdrop of significant political upheaval.
The BNP, under Rahman’s leadership, appears to be on track to secure the most seats in the upcoming parliamentary elections, according to a December survey by the U.S.-based International Republican Institute. Rahman’s return is not just a political statement but is also personally urgent, as he aims to visit his ailing mother, Khaleda Zia, a former Prime Minister who has been in poor health for several months.
The political landscape has altered dramatically since Hasina’s removal, which ended an era of alternating leadership between her and Khaleda. As the February 12 elections approach, tensions are palpable. The Awami League party, led by Hasina, has been barred from participating in the elections and has threatened unrest, raising concerns about the potential for violence that could disrupt the electoral process.
With Rahman back at the helm, the BNP is eager to reclaim its influence and navigate through a tumultuous political climate. The stakes are high as the party seeks to establish a stable and prosperous future for Bangladesh, appealing to a diverse electorate weary of conflict and seeking unity.
