Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's 61st birthday will be observed tomorrow. As the eldest son of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former three-time Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, Tarique was born on November 20, 1965.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the BNP has instructed its leaders and activists to forgo traditional celebrations, such as cake-cutting, in favor of a more subdued observance across the country. The party has advised against organizing any formal or informal events to mark the occasion, suggesting instead that resources be redirected to charitable donations.
Born and raised under the guidance of a strict disciplinarian, Tarique Rahman spent his childhood in a modest environment, embracing simple living as a family motto. His educational journey began at Shaheen High School and College in Dhaka Cantonment, where he excelled academically, completing his secondary and higher secondary examinations with distinction. He pursued higher education at Dhaka University, focusing on International Relations.
During his studies, Tarique Rahman immersed himself in the works of renowned political and social thinkers, enriching his understanding of state, polity, and democracy. His academic pursuits coincided with a period of political upheaval, as his mother led a movement against the autocratic rule of Ershad. This environment naturally drew him into politics.
In 1988, Tarique Rahman formally entered the political arena by obtaining primary membership in Gabtali Upazila, his father's birthplace, and later joined the Bogura district BNP in 1993. As a member of the National Campaign Strategy Committee, he played a crucial role in coordinating election campaigns, contributing to his mother's success in multiple constituencies.
Despite facing challenges and allegations from the army-backed 1/11 caretaker government, Tarique Rahman's commitment to politics remained unwavering. He has articulated a vision for addressing the pitfalls of democratic practices in Bangladesh through comprehensive structural reforms.
Tarique Rahman has proposed a 31-point country reform plan aimed at overhauling the executive, judiciary, and legislative branches of government to ensure robust governance. His vision includes fostering a climate-resilient nation, collaborating internationally to combat global warming, and establishing a merit-based society.
With aspirations of contesting from the Bogura-6 constituency in the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, Tarique Rahman's return to Bangladesh is eagerly anticipated by his supporters. His vision for a democratic and prosperous nation continues to inspire many across the country.