After a long absence of 17 years, Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh. He is the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. According to Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo, Rahman landed in Dhaka at around 12:00 pm on Wednesday.
His return marks a major political moment. It comes just months before Bangladesh heads to national elections. Many see his arrival as a turning point for the BNP and for the country’s political landscape.
Three-day visit announced by BNP
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that Tarique Rahman will stay in Bangladesh for three days. He shared the details at a press conference held at the BNP chairperson’s political office in Gulshan, Dhaka.
After landing at the airport, Rahman was scheduled to head to a reception venue on the July Expressway, also known as the 300 Feet Road. There, he is set to meet senior party leaders and grassroots activists. He is also expected to address the nation during this gathering.
Meeting Khaleda Zia after public address
Rahman’s visit carries strong emotional and political weight. After his public speech, he is expected to visit Evercare Hospital. There, he will meet his mother, BNP chief Khaleda Zia, who has been undergoing treatment.
This meeting is significant for party supporters. It also highlights the central role Khaleda Zia continues to play in BNP politics.
Detailed itinerary during the visit
Salahuddin Ahmed outlined Rahman’s schedule for the coming days. On Friday, December 26, after Jumma prayers, Rahman will visit the grave of former President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in Dhaka.
From there, he will travel to Savar to pay homage at the National Martyrs’ Monument. This visit is meant to honor the martyrs of Bangladesh’s Liberation War.
Voter registration and campus visit
The next day, Rahman will complete procedures related to his national identity card. This step is required for him to be officially registered as a voter. It is not yet clear whether he will personally visit the Election Commission office in Agargaon. The party said it would provide clarity later.
On the same day, Rahman is also scheduled to visit Dhaka University. He will pay respects at the grave of martyred Osman Hadi, according to Salahuddin Ahmed.
Why the visit matters ahead of elections
Rahman’s return is politically crucial because elections are approaching. The ruling Awami League has been barred from contesting following the July protests. Its leader and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is currently living in New Delhi.
In this context, BNP has emerged as a key player in the upcoming polls. Many observers believe Rahman’s presence could energize the party and consolidate its position.
India’s perspective on BNP’s rise
From India’s point of view, BNP is now seen as a viable option to maintain stable ties with Bangladesh. The alternatives include radical Islamist groups that have been accused of spreading anti-India rhetoric under interim chief Muhammad Yunus.
Despite past tensions between BNP and New Delhi, India now views the party as relatively liberal and democratic. This marks a shift in perception driven by current political realities.
Signs of warming ties between BNP and India
There are also indications that BNP and India want to improve relations. On December 1, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern for Khaleda Zia’s health and offered India’s support.
The BNP welcomed this gesture and publicly expressed gratitude. This exchange stood out as a rare moment of goodwill after years of strained relations. As a result, many analysts believe a BNP victory in the elections could be positive for India.
Allegations and political undercurrents
Meanwhile, the student-led National Citizen Party, another contender in the polls, has accused BNP of absorbing members from the Awami League. These claims add another layer of complexity to an already tense political environment.
As campaigning intensifies, Tarique Rahman’s return is likely to remain a central focus in Bangladesh’s political debate.