BNP plans historic rally as Rahman, seen as a key chief, marks his extremely anticipated homecoming.
Printed On 24 Dec 2025
Bangladesh’s primary opposition get together says it’s making ready an enormous present of help as its chief, Tarique Rahman, prepares to return dwelling after almost 17 years in exile.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) goals to mobilise as much as 5 million supporters within the capital to welcome Rahman, who’s extensively considered because the get together’s prime ministerial frontrunner for the nation’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February.
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His anticipated arrival from London on Thursday comes because the BNP regains momentum after the removing of longtime chief Sheikh Hasina in a student-led rebellion final 12 months.
Rahman, 60, is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and presently serves because the BNP’s performing chairman.
Since 1991, energy in Bangladesh has largely alternated between Zia and Hasina, other than transient caretaker administrations. With Hasina’s Awami League barred from contesting the February 12 vote, the BNP now seems positioned to dominate the race.
‘A defining political second’
BNP leaders say they’re coordinating safety preparations with authorities for what they name an “unprecedented” mobilisation, with supporters anticipated to line the route from the airport to the reception venue.
“This will likely be a defining political second,” senior BNP chief Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated.
Rahman has lived in London since 2008 after going through a number of legal convictions in Bangladesh, together with cash laundering and fees linked to an alleged plot to assassinate Hasina. Courts acquitted him following Hasina’s removing from workplace, eradicating the authorized obstacles that had delayed his return.
BNP officers stated Rahman will proceed straight from the airport to the rally venue earlier than visiting his mom, who has been significantly in poor health for months.
The homecoming unfolds throughout a fragile transition overseen by an interim authorities led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The election is seen as a crucial check of Bangladesh’s means to revive democratic legitimacy after years of political turmoil.
Issues persist over sporadic violence and up to date assaults on media shops, elevating questions in regards to the state’s capability to make sure a reputable vote.
The Nationwide Citizen Celebration (NCP), which emerged from the youth protest motion that toppled Hasina, welcomed Rahman’s return.
“Rahman was pressured into exile below extreme strain and threats, so his homecoming carries symbolic weight,” stated NCP spokesperson Khan Muhammad Mursalin. “His arrival will undoubtedly energise get together leaders and supporters … On the trail to democracy, we’ll stand with him.”
