Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and one of the foremost figures of the country’s pro-democracy movement, is returning to Bangladesh today, Thursday. Despite facing years of persecution, repression, and life-threatening challenges, he has never compromised on the question of democracy. His long-awaited return has sparked fresh discussions, expectations, and enthusiasm across the nation’s political landscape.
BNP leaders and activists view his homecoming as a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle to restore democracy. According to party sources, extensive preparations have been made in Dhaka and various districts of the country to welcome him. Party offices are adorned with decorations, while posters, banners, and slogans have filled the political arena with renewed energy and excitement.
Party leaders believe that Tarique Rahman’s return will inject new momentum into BNP’s organizational activities and further strengthen the ongoing democratic movement. They describe him as a leader of multifaceted qualities—an efficient organizer, a strategic politician, a sharp political analyst, and an uncompromising advocate of democracy. Even amid severe political repression and numerous obstacles, he has led the party with firmness and resolve.
Senior BNP leaders note that maintaining unity among party activists, formulating effective movement strategies, and upholding a firm stance on democracy and voting rights are among the defining features of his leadership. His foresight and political acumen, they say, have earned him a unique position within BNP politics.
According to several party leaders, regardless of how deep political crises have become, Tarique Rahman has never lost hope. Instead, through patience, strategic wisdom, and pragmatic decision-making, he has continued to guide the party forward. These qualities have established him as a mature, responsible, and timely political leader.
Tarique Rahman’s role in the anti-authoritarian movement and the struggle to restore democracy has always been significant and widely discussed. Party activists point out that although he has personally endured repression and suffering, he has never compromised on democratic principles. This steadfastness and sacrifice have elevated him to the status of a hero among pro-democracy citizens.
He is not confined to speeches or statements alone; rather, he has played an active role in street movements, strengthening organizational capacity, and shaping future political strategies. BNP leaders emphasize that his greatest strength lies in his organizational skills. From grassroots to central leadership, he has demonstrated exceptional ability in unifying the party. Through regular communication with activists, listening to their concerns, and providing timely guidance, he has emerged as an inspiring leader. They also claim that many young leaders have become actively involved in politics under his leadership.
Political analysts believe that Tarique Rahman’s return holds special significance in the current political context. At a time when Bangladesh’s politics is facing challenges, uncertainty, and polarization, the active presence of an experienced, strategic leader committed to democratic values could influence the country’s political balance. They suggest that his return may bring renewed momentum to opposition politics and broaden the scope of democracy-centered discourse and movements.
Senior BNP leaders further describe Tarique Rahman not only as a political leader but as a statesman-like figure. His speeches reflect wisdom and foresight, while his decision-making demonstrates responsibility and relevance to the times. On issues of democracy, rule of law, human rights, and the people’s right to vote, he has consistently maintained an uncompromising stance.
Party activists expect that his return will further energize BNP’s organizational activities. They believe that his direct presence will inspire grassroots leaders and activists, boosting confidence and enthusiasm in the democratic movement.
Overall, stakeholders believe that Tarique Rahman’s return to the country is significant not only for BNP but also for the broader political landscape of Bangladesh. How this homecoming will shape the future course of national politics, however, remains to be determined by time.