Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has established himself over a long political journey as a mature, visionary, and responsible political leader. His position within party politics has reached a level where he is widely accepted and trusted by BNP leaders across generations—from senior, veteran figures to young and emerging activists. Despite political adversity, a prolonged period of exile, and various real-world constraints, he has consistently demonstrated leadership capacity by keeping the party united, maintaining strong grassroots connections, and continuing the practice of humane and people-centered politics.
Tarique Rahman is not only known as a politician but also as a deeply humane individual. Standing beside the poor, the helpless, and those in distress has been a defining principle of his political philosophy. Even while remaining physically absent from the country, he has extended support to thousands across remote regions of Bangladesh through his representatives. Whether through medical assistance, financial aid, or relief efforts during times of crisis, his initiatives have strengthened his bond with ordinary citizens and reinforced his image as a compassionate leader.
After spending 17 years in exile, news of Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh has generated widespread enthusiasm and excitement among BNP leaders and activists. For years, questions echoed across political circles, tea stalls, public spaces, and television talk shows: When will Tarique Rahman return? Why has he not come back sooner? What obstacles stood in his way? His anticipated return is now set to provide answers to those long-standing questions. According to party sources, all preparations are in place for his return on Thursday, December 25.
In anticipation of his arrival, BNP leaders and activists have been busy making extensive preparations. Plans are underway to accord him a warm and dignified reception. With approval from the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner, arrangements are being made for a mass reception program at the 300 Feet area in Khilkhet, Dhaka. Party members are determined to ensure maximum security and honor for their leader, and residential arrangements in the capital have also been finalized.
Tarique Rahman personally confirmed his return during a gathering with party leaders and activists in London, where he formally took leave of them. Demonstrating his modest and restrained nature, he requested supporters not to gather at the airport to see him off. It has been learned that he will return accompanied by his wife, daughter, and five other companions. His beloved pet cat, “Jebu,” will also be traveling with him, reflecting the humane and familial side of his personal life.
He has booked a seat on Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-2020. The flight is scheduled to depart from London Heathrow Airport at 6:15 p.m. on December 24 and is expected to arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 11:45 a.m. on December 25 aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
Discussions and debates surrounding Tarique Rahman’s return are not new. Since November 23, his mother, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. As her health reportedly deteriorated, criticism emerged in various quarters questioning why Tarique Rahman had not returned sooner. Some argued that following the mass uprising of 2024, he had an opportunity to return but chose not to do so. Tarique Rahman later addressed these concerns himself, explaining that legal and political realities had made his return impossible until now.
Many conscious citizens believe that his long years in exile have shaped Tarique Rahman into a more refined, patient, and strategic leader. Despite being abroad, he has successfully maintained unity within the party, provided strategic direction for political movements, and kept BNP organizationally active—clear indicators of his ability as a skilled political organizer.
Following the political crisis after the One-Eleven period, Tarique Rahman was released from prison in 2008 and moved to the United Kingdom with his family. In 2012, he applied for political asylum there, which was granted within a year. Since then, he has remained in exile. Although his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, has visited Bangladesh on several occasions, Tarique Rahman himself was unable to return for a long time.
Despite prolonged adversity and restrictions, Tarique Rahman never withdrew from politics. Instead, he continued to guide the party from abroad, focused on nurturing future leadership, and maintained strong ties with the people. Party leaders and supporters believe that his return will inject new momentum and renewed hope into BNP’s political journey.
In summary, Tarique Rahman stands today as a timely and humane political leader—one who has led during crises, practiced politics grounded in empathy, and evolved with changing times. His return is not merely the homecoming of a political figure; rather, it is widely seen as the beginning of a new chapter in the political trajectory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.