BNP Leader Tarique Rahman Returns From Long Exile in Bangladesh

Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh. The acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) landed in Dhaka on December 25, 2025. His arrival ends a 17-year political exile spent primarily in London. Thousands of cheering supporters greeted him at the airport and on the capital’s streets.

His homecoming reshapes the nation’s political landscape. It comes ahead of critical parliamentary elections scheduled for February 2026. With the rival Awami League barred from contesting, Rahman’s BNP is now the clear favorite.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming After Legal Battles

Rahman is the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He was once known as the ‘crown prince’ of Bangladeshi politics. His exile began in 2008 following his arrest and subsequent release on bail by a military-backed caretaker government.

He left for the United Kingdom citing medical reasons. He did not return for nearly two decades. During that time, he faced a total of 84 criminal cases, as reported by Reuters.

These included convictions for money laundering and a deadly 2004 grenade attack. The BNP has long claimed all charges were politically motivated. A major shift occurred following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina‘s government in August 2024.

Political Shift Paves Way for Return and Power Bid

The interim government and higher courts revisited Rahman’s legal troubles. By May 2025, he had been acquitted in all cases against him. This legal clearing removed the final barrier to his return.

He now returns as his party’s top leader and a presumptive prime minister. His immediate task is to reorganize the BNP and lead its election campaign. The political vacuum created by the Awami League’s disqualification presents a historic opportunity.

His return also coincides with fresh political violence. This followed the recent assassination of a key youth protest leader. In his first speech, Rahman called for national unity and calm.

Tarique Rahman’s return marks a pivotal moment for Bangladesh’s immediate future, positioning the longtime exile at the very center of the nation’s unfolding political drama.

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Why was Tarique Rahman living in exile?

He went into self-exile in 2008 after being released on bail. He faced dozens of serious criminal charges at the time. Rahman left for the UK for medical treatment and chose not to return for 17 years.

What made his return possible now?

The political situation changed dramatically. After Sheikh Hasina’s government was ousted, courts reviewed his cases. He was acquitted of all charges by mid-2025, clearing his path home.

What is the BNP’s current political standing?

The BNP is considered the frontrunner for the 2026 elections. This is because the ruling Awami League has been barred from participating. The party is now rallying behind Rahman’s leadership.

What did Rahman say upon his return?

He called for national unity to maintain law and order. He addressed thousands of supporters directly from the airport. Rahman also paid tribute to a recently assassinated youth leader.

What are the main charges he faced?

He was convicted in cases involving money laundering and a 2004 grenade attack. There were 84 total cases filed against him during the Awami League era. His party maintains all accusations were politically driven.

Who are Tarique Rahman’s parents?

He is the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His father was assassinated in 1981. His mother led the BNP and served as the country’s first female prime minister.