Bangladesh political heavyweight Tarique Rahman to end exile

First, Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to return home after 17 years in exile. He is expected to lead the party ahead of the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, his supporters are preparing to welcome him back.

Acting chairman of BNP, Tarique Rahman, poses for a portrait in a hotel in London on Dec 30, 2023. — AFP

Political Background

Rahman, 60, fled Bangladesh in 2008, citing politically motivated persecution. During this period, he lived in London with his wife and daughter. Importantly, he remained the party’s key figurehead abroad.

He is expected to take over leadership from his ailing mother, 80-year-old former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. However, Zia continues to campaign despite health challenges.

Upcoming Elections

The elections are scheduled for February 12, 2026. Notably, they are the first since last year’s mass uprising. As a result, Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year hardline rule ended. Since then, Rahman was acquitted of his most serious charges.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Rahman will “arrive among us on the soil of Dhaka” on December 25. He added it will be a “fantastic day” for party supporters.

Early Life and Career

Rahman, born in 1967 in East Pakistan, was briefly detained as a child during the 1971 war. He grew up in his mother’s political orbit after his father, Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated when Tarique was 15. Consequently, his political journey began early.

At 23, he joined BNP to oppose military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Since then, he has been groomed for leadership and often appeared alongside his mother in campaigns.

Controversies and Exile

Rahman faced allegations of nepotism, corruption, and violent politics. Despite this, he denied all charges. Therefore, he was eventually released from Bangladesh in 2008. Since then, he lived quietly in London while maintaining influence in BNP affairs.

During his exile, he kept a low profile. Meanwhile, BNP supporters viewed him as the party’s key future leader.

Return and Public Reaction

Now, Rahman has become more vocal on social media. He aims to rally party members and supporters ahead of the elections. Importantly, his return marks a critical moment for Bangladesh politics.

For official updates, visit the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) website.