Savar: BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War at the National Martyrs’ Memorial tonight.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, earlier in the evening, Rahman visited the grave of his father, BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. Overcome with emotion, Tarique Rahman was seen shedding tears as he stood at his father’s grave for the first time in nearly 19 years.
His journey to the memorial was delayed due to thousands of supporters lining the roads to greet him. Rahman acknowledged their support by waving from his vehicle.
As he was unable to reach the memorial altar before sunset due to official rules, senior BNP leaders paid tribute on his behalf at 5:06 pm. Later, Rahman arrived at the memorial around 10:00 pm and personally laid a wreath with senior party leaders. He signed the visitors’ book while remaining in his vehicle at 10:37 pm.
BNP Standing Committee Members Goyeshwar Chandra Roy and Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, among others, accompanied him during the tribute. BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan reported that Rahman expressed gratitude to all present, including law enforcement, for their patience despite his delayed arrival.
Rahman returned to the country on Thursday after nearly 17 years in exile in London. Upon his return, he received a significant public reception, with millions gathering to welcome him. Following this, he visited Evercare Hospital to see his ailing mother, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.