Archive · 28 Dec 2025
Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh
Tarique Rahman, the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), came back to Bangladesh after living in the UK for 17 years.
He was in exile because of legal problems, including a conviction for a grenade attack in 2004, which was later overturned.
Rahman is now preparing to lead his party in the upcoming elections in February 2026.
His return has caused some tension, especially with India, over recent attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
The situation is important because it could change the political landscape of Bangladesh.
Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile in the UK.
He is the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and will lead the party in the upcoming February 2026 elections.
Rahman was convicted in 2018 for a 2004 grenade attack but was acquitted in December 2024.
His return has sparked diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh over attacks on minorities.
The BNP is expected to win the upcoming elections, with the Awami League banned from contesting.
- Who
- Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of BNP
- What
- Return to Bangladesh after 17 years of exile
- When
- December 25, 2025
- Where
- Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Why
- To lead BNP in upcoming elections and address political and legal issues
BNP Supporters
Critics and Opposition
Political Leadership
BNP Supporters
BNP supporters believe Rahman's return will bring strong leadership and a plan for Bangladesh's development, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for all citizens.
Critics and Opposition
Critics argue that Rahman's return could exacerbate political tensions and violence, given his controversial past and the recent spate of attacks on minorities.
Election Prospects
BNP Supporters
BNP supporters are optimistic about their chances in the upcoming elections, believing Rahman's leadership will lead to a victory.
Critics and Opposition
Opposition parties and critics view the elections as unfair, citing the ban on the Awami League and the potential for manipulation.
- Name
- Tarique Rahman
- Role
- Acting Chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
- Exile Duration
- 17 years
- Return Date
- December 25, 2025
- Upcoming Elections
- February 2026
- Legal Status
- Conviction overturned in December 2024
- Diplomatic Tussle
- India-Bangladesh over attacks on minorities
Sources
The world this week | Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh, Trump appoints Special Envoy to Greenland, US hits IS targets in Nigeria
After decades of reactionary policies, BNP has chance to calibrate its India stance. Can it seize the moment?