Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman stayed beside his ailing mother and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital here. He reached the hospital at around 6pm after attending a large public gathering at July 36 Expressway, popularly known as 300-Feet Road, which was held to welcome him on his return from London.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman became overwhelmed with emotion after reuniting with his critically ill mother on home soil. He spoke with the physicians at Evercare Hospital to inquire about his mother’s latest physical condition and spent some private time by her side. He was accompanied by his wife, Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Zaima Rahman.
After visiting the hospital, the BNP’s Acting Chairman planned to proceed to his residence at house number 196 on Gulshan Avenue. Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh marks the end of a 17-year exile in the UK. He arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 11.40am by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, after departing from London’s Heathrow Airport at 6.15pm (London Time) on Wednesday.
Biman’s Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Md Shafiqur Rahman, informed Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha that the aircraft carrying Tarique, along with his wife and daughter, landed at HSIA at 11:40am following a one-hour stopover at Sylhet’s Osmani International Airport. Upon arrival, he received a warm reception at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, along with standing committee members, greeted Tarique Rahman at the VVIP lounge of the airport. His mother-in-law, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, welcomed him with a flower bouquet. After completing airport proceedings, Tarique Rahman began his journey to the July 36 Expressway venue amid tight security.
The journey from the airport to the public event venue was marked by a festive atmosphere. Millions of people lined the roads, chanting slogans and expressing enthusiasm and excitement over Tarique Rahman’s return. The crowd celebrated by waving the national flag, carrying the party symbol Dhaner Shis, and wearing colorful attire while beating drums.
Tarique Rahman responded to the crowd’s chants by waving from the bus, creating an emotional scene as the motorcade escorted him to the venue.