Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman made a significant return to Bangladesh today, arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:40am via a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight. His return marks the end of a 17-year exile in the United Kingdom.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the flight carrying Tarique Rahman, his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Zaima Rahman, initially departed from London’s Heathrow Airport and made a stopover at Sylhet’s Osmani International Airport before proceeding to Dhaka. BNP Standing Committee members welcomed Rahman upon his arrival, signaling a momentous occasion for the party.
Following his arrival, Tarique Rahman is set to visit Evercare Hospital to reunite with his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. A brief public event is planned along the 300-Foot Road, where Rahman will express gratitude to the Bangladeshi people. BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed emphasized that the event is not a formal gathering, but a gesture of thanks and a call for prayers for good health for Begum Zia and the nation.
Rahman’s return is meticulously planned to minimize public disruption. Salahuddin Ahmed stated that Rahman has discouraged large gatherings, both at the London airport and in Bangladesh, to avoid inconvenience. The event on 300-Foot Road will feature medical facilities and traffic management initiatives to ensure public safety and convenience.
In the days following his return, Tarique Rahman plans to visit key historical and political sites in Bangladesh, including the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and the National Martyrs’ Memorial. He will also complete his NID card and voter registration process.
Security measures have been heightened for Rahman’s return, with cooperation from government entities and the BNP’s security team. BNP has also prepared facilities for Rahman at its Gulshan office and a newly rented office space for upcoming political activities, including the management of the 13th parliamentary election, where Rahman will contest from the Bogura-6 constituency.
Rahman’s political journey has been fraught with challenges, including controversies and legal battles during the 2001-2006 administration and his subsequent imprisonment under the 1/11 government. His return marks a new chapter for the BNP and has invigorated hopes among party members and supporters for a revitalized political landscape in Bangladesh.
Tarique Rahman’s return is seen as a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political history, promising potential changes in the political dynamics of the country. His leadership is anticipated to steer the party towards renewed democratic and civil rights efforts, with the aim of achieving political stability in the nation.