BNP Acting Chief Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years in Exile
Grand reception planned in Dhaka as Rahman lands from London amid tight security arrangements
Dhaka [Bangladesh], Dec 25: After spending 17 years in exile, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on Thursday in what is being seen as a major political development in the country following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during last year’s July Uprising.
Rahman arrived from London aboard a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, accompanied by his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman, according to bdnews24. The aircraft made a stopover in Sylhet before landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
A massive crowd of BNP leaders and supporters gathered near the airport and along the 300 Feet Road (36 July Expressway) to welcome the party’s acting chief. Supporters from across the country began assembling early in the day, prompting authorities to impose heightened security measures.
To manage the large turnout, airport authorities enforced a 24-hour ban on visitors at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, effective from 6:00 pm on December 24 to 6:00 pm on December 25. During this period, only passengers with valid tickets and passports were allowed entry, while all other visitors were barred.
Bangladesh’s interim government said it welcomed Rahman’s return and confirmed that extensive security arrangements were being finalised. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the government was making “every effort” to ensure Rahman’s safety, coordinating closely with BNP leaders to meet all security requirements.
Following his arrival, Rahman was scheduled to attend a brief reception organised by the BNP on the 300 Feet Road, where he is expected to address party supporters. He will later visit Evercare Hospital before proceeding to his residence on Gulshan Avenue, bdnews24 reported.
BNP leaders said Rahman is also set to register as a voter on December 27, with election offices remaining open to facilitate the process, including issuance of a national identity card.
Meanwhile, nomination papers for the February 12 parliamentary elections have already been collected on behalf of Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman from constituencies in Bogura, party leaders confirmed.
Rahman’s return marks a significant moment for the BNP as it prepares for the upcoming elections and seeks to reassert its political presence on the national stage.
