Tarique Rahman’s Historic Return: A New Chapter for Bangladesh Politics
Dhaka, December 25, 2025 – After 17 years in exile in London, Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh today, marking a pivotal moment ahead of the country’s upcoming parliamentary elections.
Rahman, widely regarded as a leading contender for prime minister, arrived on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight that made a stopover in Sylhet before landing in Dhaka around midday. Accompanied by his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Zaima Rahman, he was greeted by senior BNP leaders amid tight security at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
The return ends a long period of self-imposed exile that began in 2008, when Rahman left for medical treatment shortly after facing multiple legal cases under the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina. These included charges of corruption, money laundering, and involvement in a 2004 grenade attack. Following Hasina’s ouster in a student-led uprising in August 2024, courts acquitted him in all major cases, paving the way for his homecoming.
Often dubbed the “Crown Prince” of Bangladeshi politics, Rahman has led the BNP remotely as its acting chairman since 2018 while his mother, Khaleda Zia – a former prime minister and party chairperson – has been in poor health. His virtual leadership helped reposition the party, including outreach to progressive forces and advocacy for reforms.
The BNP has mobilized massively for the occasion, expecting millions of supporters to line the streets despite restrictions to avoid congestion. Rahman proceeded from the airport to a reception on the 300 Feet Road in Purbachal, where he delivered a speech, before visiting his ailing mother at Evercare Hospital.
The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, welcomed Rahman’s return and assured full cooperation on security. With national elections slated for February 2026 and the Awami League barred from contesting, the BNP is positioned as a frontrunner. Rahman’s physical presence is expected to energize the party’s campaign and unify its base amid ongoing challenges like economic instability and recent violence.
Political analysts view this as a defining test for Bangladesh’s democratic transition. Rahman’s return not only boosts the BNP but also symbolizes a shift in the nation’s turbulent political landscape following years of authoritarian rule. As he steps back onto Bangladeshi soil, all eyes are on how he will navigate the road to the polls and potential leadership of the country.
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