Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 18 Years, Calls for Calm and Secure Future

Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on December 25 after almost 18 years in exile. He spoke at a large rally in Dhaka and urged people to stay calm. He called for a secure nation for all faiths and communities. His arrival came during a tense time marked by violence in several districts.

According to AP and Reuters, his return drew huge crowds. Many supporters lined the streets from the Dhaka airport to the rally site. His message focused on unity and law and order. He also called for patience as the country enters a new political phase.

Tarique Rahman Warns of Rising Unrest and Stresses Law and Order

Rahman said Bangladesh must be safe for all groups. He named Muslim, Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist communities and said each must feel secure. He warned that “spies of hegemonic powers” were trying to create trouble. He urged people not to fall for provocation.

The BNP leader avoided direct attacks on the interim government. He did, however, speak about recent damage to major newspapers. He said people want free speech and basic rights restored. The message drew loud support from the crowd.

Reuters reported violence in the days leading up to his return. The death of Islamist youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi on December 18 led to fresh unrest. Attacks on Hindu homes and businesses were also reported. The lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh shocked the nation. BNP condemned the attacks and asked for full protection of minorities.

Rahman said the country must protect its administrative system. He stressed that law and order must be preserved “at any cost.” He told supporters to stay calm even if provoked. BNP leaders and allies from other parties welcomed him back.

What Tarique Rahman’s Return Means for Bangladesh Politics

His return marks a key point before the February 2026 election. BNP used the occasion to launch its campaign. The party highlighted the role of General Ziaur Rahman in shaping the nation’s early economic and foreign policy moves. It also repeated its claim that Zia declared independence in 1971.

BNP compared Sheikh Hasina’s fall in 2024 to major political shifts in the 1970s. Party videos released on December 25 showed the famine of 1974 and criticised policies of the Mujib era. This signals a sharp battle ahead as parties prepare for the next election.

Many political groups welcomed Rahman’s comeback. Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolan Bangladesh leaders praised his return. A new group, the National Citizen Party, also voiced support. His presence is expected to reshape political alliances. It may also raise expectations for stability during a fragile period.

Rahman’s return places him back at the center of national politics. The main keyword, Tarique Rahman, will continue to dominate discussions as Bangladesh prepares for the key 2026 election. His call for unity and calm will face its first big test in the coming weeks.

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Q1: Who is Tarique Rahman?

He is the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. He spent nearly 18 years in exile in the UK. He returned to Dhaka on December 25, 2025.

Q2: Why did Tarique Rahman return now?

He returned ahead of the February 2026 election. His party is starting its national campaign. His presence is seen as a major political move.

Q3: What violence happened before his arrival?

Reuters reported unrest after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. Attacks on Hindu communities increased. A lynching in Mymensingh drew nationwide concern.

Q4: What did he say about law and order?

He urged everyone to stay calm. He said law and order must be protected at all costs. He warned against outside provocations.

Q5: How did other parties react?

BNP leaders welcomed him back. Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolan Bangladesh also supported his return. New political groups joined in the welcome.

Trusted Sources: AP News, Reuters, BBC