Bangladesh is preparing for one of its most dramatic political moments in decades. Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is returning home after nearly 17 years in exile. His arrival is expected to reshape the country’s political landscape ahead of the February parliamentary elections.
Rahman is the eldest son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He left Bangladesh in 2008 and has lived in London since then. His return follows major political changes and the removal of long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year.
Viral Images From London Spark Political Buzz
Photos and videos of Rahman boarding a flight to Dhaka from London’s Heathrow Airport quickly went viral on social media. He is travelling with his wife, Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Zaima Rahman.
Zaima Rahman shared photos from inside the aircraft and wrote, “On the way back to my motherland, Bangladesh!”
The post added to the excitement among BNP supporters, many of whom see the return as symbolic after years of political exile.
BNP Plans Massive Welcome Rally in Dhaka
The BNP has announced plans for what it calls an “unprecedented” public reception. Party leaders claim more than five million supporters could gather along the route from Dhaka airport to Rahman’s reception venue.
The party wants to use the show of strength to signal its readiness for power. Senior BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said, “This will be a defining political moment.”
He added that the party is working closely with authorities to ensure security and crowd control.
Why Tarique Rahman Lived in Exile
Rahman left Bangladesh in September 2008 after facing multiple criminal convictions, including money laundering and charges linked to a plot to assassinate Sheikh Hasina. These cases blocked his return for years.
After Hasina’s removal from power, courts cleared Rahman of all charges. The legal relief removed the final barrier to his homecoming and cleared the way for a direct political role.
What Tarique Rahman Did During Exile
Between 2008 and 2025, Rahman led the BNP from abroad. In 2009, the party elected him Senior Vice Chairman during its national council in Dhaka.
In 2015, he registered a private PR and communications firm in the UK. Company records initially listed his nationality as British, but he later amended the documents to state Bangladeshi nationality.
After the collapse of the Hasina government in 2024, Rahman pledged to return home. He also promised support for political reforms under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.
Timing Matters as Elections Near
Rahman’s return comes at a sensitive time. Bangladesh is heading toward national elections under an interim government. The vote is widely seen as crucial to restoring stability after years of unrest.
At 60, Rahman—also known as Tarique Zia—is widely viewed as a leading contender for prime minister. Surveys suggest the BNP is on track to emerge as the largest party in parliament.
The Awami League has been barred from contesting and has warned of unrest. Smaller parties, including Islamist groups, remain in the race.
Rahman’s return also carries a personal dimension. His mother, Khaleda Zia, has been seriously ill for months. Party insiders say this accelerated his decision to come home.
Mixed Reactions Across Political Spectrum
Newer political forces have welcomed Rahman’s return. A spokesperson for the National Citizen Party (NCP) said, “Tarique Rahman was forced into exile under severe pressure and threats, so his homecoming carries symbolic weight.”
The spokesperson added, “His arrival will undoubtedly energise party leaders and supporters … On the path to democracy, we will stand with him.”
Rahman’s return will test the BNP’s ability to mobilise peacefully and the interim government’s promise of fair elections. As Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, all eyes now turn to Dhaka.