Dhaka: From the very beginning of Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Major Ziaur Rahman emerged as a prominent figure through his leadership qualities. Many historians of the Liberation War failed to comprehend the significance of this rise. They couldn’t realize why Ziaur Rahman’s declaration of independence was important in the social and political context of the then East Pakistan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, within a few years of independence in 1947, Pakistan’s state structure was defined as the armed forces began playing a significant role in the country’s decision-making process, especially during Ayub Khan’s military rule. The society and politics of East Pakistan were particularly affected by this dominant role, leading to questions about Bangladesh’s autonomy and independence movement.
Major Ziaur Rahman responded decisively through his declaration of independence after the Pakistan Army crackdown on March 25, awakening the people of Bangladesh. The Bengali-speaking section of the army joined the Liberation War, providing reassurance to the people. Ziaur Rahman actively participated in the Liberation War, led Z Force, and received recognition for bravery. He returned to regular military service after the war, became Chief of the Army, and later assumed the responsibility of head of state. His political challenge was to counter the Awami League by creating a new political party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and establishing a centrist democratic ideology.
Khaleda Zia, after Ziaur Rahman’s death, took responsibility for the BNP, restored discipline, and emerged as an uncompromising leader. Under her leadership, the BNP won Bangladesh’s first democratic election, and she became Prime Minister. However, the BNP faced internal feuds and external pressures, leading to significant challenges for Tarique Rahman, Ziaur Rahman’s successor.
Tarique Rahman was arrested, imprisoned, and forced into exile. Despite allegations against him, none were proven during the Awami League’s rule. The Awami League government carried out repression against BNP leaders and activists. For Tarique Rahman, this situation was extremely challenging, as he faced doubts about his leadership from London and media restrictions.
Despite the hostile environment, Tarique Rahman faced every challenge with patience and resilience. He dismantled negative narratives about him and established direct contact with leaders and activists. Through disciplined hard work, he established his leadership within the BNP, maintaining party unity and cohesion. Tarique Rahman’s long exile has given him time for reflection, and his vision for Bangladesh’s future and positive stance on reforms are bringing significant change in contemporary politics.
Even after 17 years outside the country, Tarique Rahman remains a symbol of resistance and leadership for many within the BNP. His return is viewed as a political moment, representing an attempt to renew and reintroduce a trusted political current into Bangladesh’s national life.