Prathiban DC
Editor
Bangladesh is preparing for the return of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman, who is set to come home after 17 years in exile. His arrival marks a critical moment for the election-bound nation, as the comeback of the BNP’s acting chairman is expected to significantly reshape the country’s political landscape.
Tarique Rahman is the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His return comes at a time when Khaleda Zia, the BNP chairperson, has largely withdrawn from active politics due to declining health. In her absence, Tarique has led the party from abroad while facing a series of legal challenges.
During the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, courts convicted Rahman in multiple cases, including corruption, bribery, money laundering, illegal accumulation of wealth, and involvement in grenade attacks. However, following the collapse of the Hasina government, these legal barriers have been removed, clearing the path for his political comeback.
Although Rahman was expected to return to Bangladesh in November, reports suggest his arrival was delayed by more than a month due to prevailing security concerns in the country.
Firm Foreign Policy Stance
Tarique Rahman is widely regarded as holding a strong anti-India position and has openly expressed his views on foreign policy matters, including the long-pending Teesta water-sharing dispute. At the same time, he has distanced himself from pursuing close ties with Pakistan. “Not Delhi, not Pindi, nor any other country. Bangladesh first,” Rahman stated in May, months after the fall of the Hasina government.
His return coincides with a sensitive period, as radical Islamic groups have been accused of fueling unrest and instability across the country.
Political Realignment Ahead of Elections
For decades, Bangladesh’s politics has largely been dominated by two major parties—the Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina and the BNP founded by Khaleda Zia. With the Awami League now barred from participating in elections, the political space has opened up for the BNP’s resurgence.
However, radical political groups are reportedly attempting to delay the electoral process in a bid to weaken the BNP’s support base and expand their own influence.
If the BNP secures victory in the upcoming elections, Tarique Rahman could emerge as the next Prime Minister. Positioning himself as a champion of democratic restoration, Rahman has already unveiled his campaign roadmap and policy agenda. Addressing party workers at a recent event, he asserted that “only democracy can pull the country out of this crisis,” urging BNP members to strengthen democratic institutions.
As Bangladesh stands at a political crossroads, Tarique Rahman’s return is widely seen as a development that could redefine the country’s future trajectory.
