Dhaka: Five days after his return home amid a massive welcome less than two months ago, ending 17 years of exile, Tarique Rahman faced tragedy when his mother, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away. However, the evolving political landscape in Bangladesh did not allow him much time for personal reflection as events quickly unfolded.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), founded by his father Ziaur Rahman and subsequently led by his mother, entrusted Tarique Rahman with the chairmanship. The party had been in political wilderness for years, particularly ahead of the elections. Rahman, displaying political acumen believed to be inherited from his parents, maneuvered the BNP in a complex scenario to secure its stake in the upcoming 13th general elections.
Rahman, known for his soft-spoken demeanor, spearheaded the election campaign by drawing massive crowds and explaining his vision for the country. This approach projected him as a statesman, leading to a landslide victory for the BNP. Consequently, he is set to become Bangladesh’s next prime minister, following one of the country’s most pivotal elections.
Global media outlets have commented on the remarkable reversal of fortune for Rahman, who left Bangladesh in 2008 for medical treatment after his release from detention. His return has been symbolic, tapping into a grassroots base linked to his father, General Ziaur Rahman. However, the election campaign was marked by both anticipation and doubt, which have now largely faded with Rahman’s new role as the next premier.
Rahman’s situation is reminiscent of French leader General Charles de Gaulle, who led from exile before returning to take charge of France. Rahman, while living in the UK, remained a central figure in Bangladeshi politics, leading a campaign to restore democratic norms and voting rights. He emphasized the need for peace and stability, outlining his immediate goals.
Since his return, Rahman has adopted an understated style, avoiding inflammatory rhetoric and calling for restraint and reconciliation. He plans to recalibrate Bangladesh’s international partnerships to attract investment, expand financial aid for poor families, and reduce reliance on garment exports. Additionally, he proposes a two-term limit for prime ministers to deter autocratic tendencies.
Rahman acknowledges the daunting task ahead in a country of 170 million people, with economic recovery being a key challenge. He has emphasized the need for a well-designed plan to tackle economic issues, with health and energy sectors as priorities. Ahead of the election, he expressed confidence in receiving a clear mandate from the people, which he has now secured to guide the country forward.