After a long wait of one and a half decades, BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is returning to Bangladesh. His homecoming has generated renewed energy in the political landscape of the country and has sparked a festive atmosphere nationwide. According to BNP leaders and supporters, this is no longer just a party event—it is gradually taking the form of a broader public awakening. According to BNP statements, Tarique Rahman is now more than a political leader; he is a symbol of the hopes and aspirations of people from all walks of life, including poets, writers, journalists, businesspersons, and farmers. For many, his return after years abroad is a long-awaited moment, prompting thousands to head to Dhaka to express their affection and respect.
The sheer scale of the gathering has affected the overall rhythm of the capital. Hotels, motels, guest houses, and even rented apartments and messes are witnessing severe accommodation shortages. Many participants arrived in Dhaka several days in advance to secure their places. BNP officials note that the influx is not limited to Dhaka city alone, but may extend to surrounding areas, with several hundred thousand people expected to converge.
To welcome Tarique Rahman, BNP has organized a massive public reception at Dhaka’s 300-feet area. Party leaders hope this event will showcase the organizational strength and popular support of the party. Delegates and supporters are arriving from 63 districts across the country. They are traveling by buses, trains, minibuses, private cars, and even motorcycle convoys. Thousands have already reached the capital, while others are expected to arrive within the scheduled time.
To ensure smooth transportation, BNP has made extensive arrangements. Several trains have been reserved under party coordination, and district- and sub-district-level transport committees have been formed to prevent any inconvenience or disorder during travel.
Participation from Districts
Meherpur district BNP reported that over 5,000 of its supporters will participate. Javed Masud Milton, district BNP president, said that members from three upazilas are traveling to Dhaka by buses, minibuses, and motorcycles, with many having already reached the city independently.
In Nawabganj district, BNP has arranged 100 buses for transportation. District BNP president Abu Bakker Siddique Nannu stated that initially, around 7,000 members are expected to travel to Dhaka, with the number potentially increasing depending on circumstances.
From Gaibandha, at least 20,000 party members and affiliates are heading to Dhaka. Leaders from all 81 unions and four municipal areas of seven upazilas have confirmed participation. Over 500 vehicles, including buses, minibuses, and private cars, have been arranged. Many are traveling by train or independently.
In Narayanganj, party members from Sonargaon and Siddhirganj upazilas will arrive in Dhaka with a convoy of approximately 300 vehicles. Party officials say that the industrially dense areas of the district will add energy and dynamism to the program.
Extensive preparations have also been observed in Khulna division. Khulna district BNP confirmed that they have been preparing for days to welcome Tarique Rahman. From Rajshahi, over 35,000 supporters and party members will travel to Dhaka by train, bus, and private cars.
Saiful Islam, convener of BNP in Rangpur, stated that at least 50,000 people are expected from the district. Supporters from northern districts are also traveling via Rangpur to reach Dhaka.
From Lakshmipur, around 20,000 members are expected to arrive via road and river routes. Satkhira will send 10,000–12,000 participants, while Bagerhat will contribute approximately 10,000 more, according to party sources.
Party Leaders’ Expectations
BNP leaders emphasize that this reception is more than just the return of a political leader. It is a manifestation of the long-held hopes, emotions, and trust of ordinary citizens. They believe that Tarique Rahman’s return will open new horizons in Bangladesh’s politics and send a significant message for the country’s future political journey.
Altogether, Dhaka’s 300-feet area is ready to witness a historic public gathering. Millions of people, driven by love, anticipation, and emotion, are gathering at the heart of the capital. Tarique Rahman’s return promises to become a landmark chapter in the political history of Bangladesh, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s collective memory.