Tarique Rahman, the influential acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to make his return to Bangladesh today after a nearly two-decade absence. Having lived in London since 2007 following his release from detention and subsequent medical travel, Rahman’s homecoming is seen as a strategic move by the BNP as the country prepares for general elections. His mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is currently hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities have mandated heightened security measures for Rahman’s arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:55 am. His family, including his wife and daughter, will accompany him. The BNP is preparing a massive public reception to mark the occasion, anticipating the attendance of millions. Post-arrival, Rahman is expected to participate in a welcome event before visiting his ailing mother.
Rahman is considered a key figure for the BNP’s prime ministerial aspirations in the upcoming February elections. Party statements suggest that if victorious, Khaleda Zia might be considered for leadership again, contingent on her health, with Rahman poised to step in as the prime ministerial candidate. The return of Rahman coincides with a period of unrest in Bangladesh, including recent violent incidents and deaths that have underscored the volatile political climate and heightened security concerns.
