Dhaka: The reception venue for BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is packed to capacity several hours before the scheduled ceremony marking his return home after nearly 18 years of exile in London. Party leaders and activists have gathered from across the country, filling the venue to its limits.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, BNP Standing Committee Member and Convener of the Tarique Rahman reception committee, Salahuddin Ahmed, announced in a press conference yesterday that a brief public reception is also planned on the service lane of the July 36 Expressway (300-Foot Road). During this event, Tarique Rahman is expected to express his gratitude to the people while heading to Evercare Hospital to visit his ailing mother and former prime minister, Begum Khaleda Zia.
On-the-ground observations showed that party leaders and activists were arriving at the venue using various modes of transportation, including buses, trucks, and private vehicles. As they arrived, they chanted slogans such as ‘Tarique
Rahman Asche, Ma-Mati Dakche’, ‘Ajker Ei Din e, Shaheed Zia Mone Pore’, and ‘Desh Neta Asche, Bangladesh Kapche’.
The atmosphere at the venue was festive, with activists displaying excitement over Tarique Rahman’s return. Some waved the national flag, others carried the party symbol Dhaner Shis (Sheaf of Paddy), and many dressed in colorful attire while beating drums to celebrate the occasion.
Ahad Uddin, a 46-year-old attendee from Bogura, expressed his joy, stating, “I never imagined that Tarique Rahman would return to the country like this. For those of us involved in BNP politics, today is truly a joyful day. Insha’Allah, the Sheaf of Paddy will win in the next national parliamentary election, and Bangladesh will progress far under Tarique Rahman’s leadership.”
Saddam Hossain Shakil, Member Secretary of Shahbagh Thana Chatro Dal, shared similar sentiments, stating, “This day has been achieved through various known and unknown struggles. We, the workers of the Nationalist ideology, are grateful to the p
eople of the country for the affection and love they have shown towards Tarique Rahman.”