Archive · 25 Dec 2025
Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh
Tarique Rahman, the 60-year-old acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is returning to Bangladesh after living in London for nearly 17 years.
He is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and former president Ziaur Rahman.
Tarique is expected to arrive in Dhaka on 25th December.
He has been involved in significant political controversies, including allegations of corruption and involvement in violent incidents.
His return coincides with increased political tension and violence in Bangladesh, particularly against the Hindu community.
The BNP has prepared for rallies and receptions upon his arrival, despite his request for people not to go to the airport.
His return is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the BNP's position ahead of the elections, but critics view it as a potential catalyst for political instability and violence.
Tarique Rahman, the 60-year-old acting chairman of the BNP, is returning to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile in London.
He is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on 25th December via Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-202 from Heathrow.
Tarique is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and former president Ziaur Rahman, often referred to as the 'crown prince' of Bangladeshi politics.
His return is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the BNP's position ahead of the February 2026 national elections and to mobilize party workers.
His return coincides with increased political tension and violence in Bangladesh, particularly against the Hindu community, and carries a heightened risk of large-scale street mobilisation, including counter-protests and possible violence.
- Who
- Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
- What
- Return to Bangladesh after 17 years of self-imposed exile in London
- When
- 25th December 2023
- Where
- Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Why
- To play a significant role in the BNP ahead of the February 2026 national elections and to mobilize party workers
BNP Supporters
Government and Critics
Political Strategy
BNP Supporters
Tarique Rahman's return is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the BNP's position ahead of the elections and mobilize party workers.
Government and Critics
Critics view his return as a potential catalyst for political instability and violence, especially given the current tensions.
Election Timing
BNP Supporters
The BNP sees his return as a confirmation that the election timeline is set in motion, aiming to project organizational strength.
Government and Critics
The government and critics may view this as an attempt to disrupt the electoral process and incite unrest.
- Name
- Tarique Rahman
- Age
- 60
- Position
- Acting Chairman of BNP
- Exile Duration
- 17 years
- Return Date
- 25th December 2023
- Flight Details
- Biman Bangladesh Airlines BG-202 from Heathrow to Dhaka
- Arrival Time
- 12:00 pm on 25th December
- Parents
- Khaleda Zia (former PM) and Ziaur Rahman (former president)
- Political Context
- Increased political tension and violence, particularly against the Hindu community
- Election Date
- February 2026
- BNP's Goal
- Gather 5 million supporters to welcome Rahman
Sources
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