Tarique Rahman Returns to Dhaka After 17 Years Ahead of Key Bangladesh Election

Standing barefoot on the tarmac, Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on Thursday. He arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after more than 17 years in self‑exile. His return came weeks before the February 12 parliamentary election. Large crowds gathered near the airport and key roads across the capital. The main keyword in this report is Tarique Rahman.

His arrival matters because he leads the Bangladesh Nationalist Party from abroad. According to AP, he left the country in 2008 for medical care and stayed in London since then. His return signals a major political shift before the national vote. It also comes during tensions after recent unrest in Dhaka.

Tarique Rahman’s Return Draws Thousands and Raises Stakes

Authorities deployed heavy security across Dhaka. More than 4,000 security staff stood guard, according to AP. The army, police, and border forces were present around the airport and major routes. Tarique Rahman left the airport in a bulletproof bus.

He arrived with his wife and daughter. Senior BNP leaders, including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, received him. Supporters lined the roads and waited for hours to see him. Many waved party flags and chanted his name.

Rahman later addressed a gathering in Dhaka. He called for calm as the country prepares for the election. He urged supporters to work for peace and stability. He also spoke about the need for an inclusive Bangladesh where all groups feel safe. His message focused on unity during a tense moment in national politics.

BNP hopes to gain ground in the coming polls. The Awami League, the long‑time ruling party, is barred from contesting this election under the Anti‑Terrorism Act. This gives the BNP a rare chance to lead the vote without its main rival. The party’s leaders say Rahman’s presence will energize supporters and shape the race.

What Tarique Rahman’s Return Means for Bangladesh Politics

His return comes during strained regional ties. Recent protests followed the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Rumors spread online about foreign involvement. India called for a full investigation, according to AP. India also raised concerns over attacks on minority groups.

Rahman did not mention India in his speech. His focus stayed on national unity and safety. His remarks echoed earlier calls for a broad political settlement. Analysts say his return may change the campaign’s tone. Some expect higher turnout due to renewed party activity. Others warn that tensions may rise if large crowds keep gathering.

For the BNP, Rahman remains the de‑facto chief. He has guided the party from London since 2018. Khaleda Zia, his mother and former prime minister, has been ill for years. With Rahman now back in Dhaka, party leaders believe they can organize better and push for a strong election result.

This moment could reshape the election. Tarique Rahman now stands at the center of Bangladesh politics again. His return may define the next phase of national leadership.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Tarique Rahman return to Bangladesh?

He returned ahead of the February 12 election. His party expects a major role in the vote. He came back after 17 years abroad.

Q2: When did he leave Bangladesh?

He left in 2008 for medical care. He lived in London since then. He led the BNP from abroad for years.

Q3: How was security managed during his arrival?

AP reports that over 4,000 security officers were deployed. Forces included the army, police, and border guards. They guarded the airport and main roads.

Q4: What did he say in his speech?

He called for peace and unity. He spoke about safety for all groups. He urged supporters to stay calm.

Q5: Why is this election important?

The Awami League is barred from running. This changes the political field. BNP hopes to benefit from this shift.

Trusted Sources: AP, Reuters