Bangladesh opposition leader Tarique Rahman prepares for significant return to the country after years in exile.
As Bangladesh approaches a pivotal electoral moment, the return of Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), signifies not just a homecoming but potentially a transformative chapter in the nation’s political landscape. After nearly 17 years in exile, Rahman’s arrival has galvanized the opposition party, aiming to muster up to five million supporters for a rally in Dhaka, reflecting a renewed hope for democratic engagement following years of turmoil. This political resurgence is framed as a vital test for Bangladesh, where the desire for legitimate governance and citizen participation has been reignited.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is preparing to mobilize an unprecedented turnout in the capital to welcome Tarique Rahman, its leader, who is returning home after nearly 17 years in exile. Anticipating as many as five million supporters at the event, the BNP views Rahman as a prime ministerial frontrunner ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for February.
His arrival from London on Thursday coincides with the BNP regaining momentum following the removal of longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina through a student-led uprising last year. At 60 years old, Rahman is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and currently serves as the acting chairman of the BNP.
Historically, power in Bangladesh has oscillated between Zia and Hasina since 1991, aside from brief periods of caretaker governance. With Hasina’s Awami League barred from participating in the February 12 elections, the BNP is in a strong position to potentially dominate the political landscape.
BNP leaders are making extensive security arrangements with authorities ahead of what they describe as an “unprecedented” mobilization, with supporters expected to line the route from the airport to the rally venue. Senior BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi characterized this moment as “defining” for the party and for Bangladesh’s future.
Rahman has lived in London since 2008 due to multiple criminal convictions in Bangladesh, including money laundering charges and accusations linked to an alleged plot to assassinate Hasina. Following Hasina’s removal, courts acquitted him of these charges, clearing the way for his return.
Officials have announced that Rahman will head straight from the airport to the rally venue before visiting his ailing mother, who has been seriously ill for several months. His homecoming occurs during a sensitive transition overseen by an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. This election is viewed as a critical opportunity for Bangladesh to reclaim its democratic legitimacy following years marked by political upheaval.
Despite lingering concerns over sporadic violence and recent attacks on media outlets, the atmosphere surrounding Rahman’s return is charged with optimism. The National Citizen Party (NCP), which arose from the youth-led protests that ousted Hasina, has welcomed his homecoming. NCP spokesperson Khan Muhammad Mursalin noted, “Rahman was forced into exile under severe pressure and threats, so his return carries significant symbolic weight.” He expressed confidence that Rahman’s arrival will energize the party’s leadership and supporters, reinforcing their commitment to the democratic path ahead.
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