Tarique Rahman, the senior vice chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), returned to Bangladesh on December 27, 2025, after spending 17 years in exile. His return marks a significant moment in the political landscape of Bangladesh, as Rahman has been a prominent figure in the country’s politics and a key player in the BNP, which has been in opposition for over a decade.
Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, left Bangladesh in 2008 amid allegations of corruption and other criminal charges. His departure coincided with a military-backed caretaker government that took power in 2007, leading to a crackdown on political opponents. Rahman was convicted in absentia in several cases, including a high-profile money laundering case, which he has consistently denied, claiming that the charges were politically motivated.
Upon his arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, Rahman expressed deep emotions in a social media post, reflecting on his long absence from the country. He stated that he had returned to serve the people of Bangladesh and to work towards restoring democracy and justice. His post resonated with many of his supporters, who view his return as a potential turning point for the BNP and the broader political environment in Bangladesh.
The BNP has been struggling to regain its footing in the face of a dominant ruling party, the Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The Awami League has been in power since 2009, and the political climate has been characterized by tensions and allegations of authoritarianism. The BNP has faced significant challenges, including internal divisions and a crackdown on dissent, which has hindered its ability to mobilize supporters effectively.
Rahman’s return is seen as a strategic move for the BNP as it prepares for the upcoming national elections scheduled for early 2026. His presence in the country is expected to galvanize the party’s base and reinvigorate its leadership. Analysts suggest that Rahman’s leadership could help unify the party and present a more formidable challenge to the Awami League, which has maintained a strong grip on power through a combination of electoral victories and political maneuvering.
In his post, Rahman outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing the need for political reform, economic development, and social justice. He called for a united front among opposition parties to challenge the ruling government and restore what he described as the “true spirit of democracy” in Bangladesh. His message resonated with many who have been critical of the current government’s handling of political dissent and civil liberties.
The implications of Rahman’s return extend beyond the BNP. It raises questions about the future of political discourse in Bangladesh and the potential for increased polarization between the ruling party and the opposition. Observers note that Rahman’s return could lead to heightened political tensions, especially if the government perceives his presence as a threat to its authority.
Internationally, Rahman’s return has drawn attention from human rights organizations and foreign governments, which have been monitoring the political situation in Bangladesh. Concerns about human rights abuses and the suppression of political dissent have been raised in recent years, and Rahman’s return may prompt renewed scrutiny of the Awami League’s governance.
As the political landscape evolves, the response from the ruling party will be critical. The Awami League has historically been known for its strong stance against opposition parties, and how it reacts to Rahman’s return could shape the dynamics leading up to the elections. The government may seek to discredit Rahman and the BNP, while also attempting to consolidate its support among the electorate.
In conclusion, Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after 17 years is a significant development in the country’s political narrative. His emotional message upon arrival highlights his commitment to political change and sets the stage for a potentially contentious electoral battle in the coming months. As the BNP seeks to regain its influence, the implications of Rahman’s return will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike, as well as by the international community.
