Archive · 23 Dec 2025
Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh
Tarique Rahman, the son of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is coming back to Bangladesh after 17 years.
He is an important leader in the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
His return is big news because Bangladesh is having a lot of political problems right now.
The BNP is getting ready for elections in February 2026, and Tarique Rahman might become a key leader.
He has said that if his party wins, Bangladesh will focus on its own interests first, not other countries.
He has been living in the UK since 2008 but is now returning to help his country.
Some people are excited about his return, while others are worried about his safety and the party's chances in the elections.
Tarique Rahman, acting chairperson of the BNP, returns to Bangladesh after 17 years of exile.
His return is significant ahead of the February 2026 elections, with the BNP as the frontrunner.
Rahman advocates for a 'Bangladesh First' foreign policy, distancing from close ties with India and Pakistan.
The BNP has criticized both the previous Sheikh Hasina government and the current Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.
Rahman has outlined a campaign and announced programs the BNP will implement if elected.
- Who
- Tarique Rahman, acting chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia
- What
- Return to Bangladesh after 17 years of exile
- When
- December 25, 2024
- Where
- Bangladesh
- Why
- To participate in politics ahead of the February 2026 elections and potentially lead the country
BNP Supporters
Critics and Analysts
Tarique Rahman's Return
BNP Supporters
BNP supporters view his return as a significant boost for the party, energizing the cadre and voters ahead of the February 2026 elections.
Critics and Analysts
Critics and analysts question whether his return will actually happen due to security concerns and the volatile political situation in Bangladesh.
BNP's Chances in Elections
BNP Supporters
BNP supporters believe his return will solidify the party's position as the frontrunner in the elections, with opinion polls showing significant support.
Critics and Analysts
Analysts suggest that the BNP needs to restore faith among undecided voters and that Rahman's absence has created a vacuum that needs to be filled for the party to gain power.
- Name
- Tarique Rahman
- Role
- Acting Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
- Return Date
- December 25, 2024
- Party
- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
- Election Date
- February 12, 2026
- Foreign Policy Stance
- Bangladesh First Policy
- Previous Political Role
- Son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia
- Exile Duration
- 17 years
- Legal Status
- Acquitted in all 84 pending cases, including charges related to the 2004 Dhaka grenade attack, money laundering, sedition, and the Zia Charitable Trust.
Sources
The Significance Of Khaleda Zia's Son's Return To Bangladesh After 17 Years
Who is Tarique Rahman, Khaleda Zia’s son & why his return to Bangladesh after 17 yrs is significant
Bangladesh Unravels, Even as Indian Diplomacy Continues to Falter
Lawless Bangladesh: NCP leader shot in Khulna days after after Hadi killing
Sharif Osman Hadi Death: Case to be heard under Speedy Trial Tribunal in Bangladesh
Meet Tarique Rahman, the man who may change Bangladesh's political course
Who Is Tarique Rahman? Khaleda Zia's Exiled Son To Return To Bangladesh After 17 Years
Tarique Rahman to return to Bangladesh after 17 years: Can Khaleda Zia’s son influence February elections?
With Tarique Rahman's return, can BNP return to power in Bangladesh?
