Bangladesh is grappling with rising violence from radical Islamic groups with a key political event approaching ahead of the February elections with the return of Tarique Rahman. Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and acting chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to return to the country on Thursday. The BNP has received permission to hold a reception to welcome him.
His return comes at a critical time for Bangladesh with the nation at a political crossroads. Rahman could play a significant role in shaping the country’s future as the BNP remains the frontrunner for the February 2026 elections with a high chance of victory unless unexpected developments occur.
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Who is Tarique Rahman?
Often called the “crown prince” of Bangladeshi politics, Tarique Rahman is the eldest son of former president Ziaur Rahman and three-time prime minister Khaleda Zia, the current BNP chairperson. His return comes at a time of political tension in Bangladesh, marked by violence, arrests, and debates over the interim government’s direction.
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Rise and Years in Exile
Tarique rose as a powerful figure within the BNP in the early 2000s, widely seen as his mother’s political heir. However, his political career faced setbacks amid turbulence in Bangladeshi politics. He spent about 18 months in jail, was released in September 2008, and then moved to the United Kingdom with his family, living abroad in formal exile while still influencing BNP strategies from London.
Despite being away, Rahman remained central to the BNP, later becoming its acting chairman. Supporters credit him with keeping the party united during years of political pressure, while critics argue he represents dynastic politics.
Critics argue that the interim government under Muhammad Yunus has been careless, particularly in handling foreign policy. Tarique Rahman, however, has clearly outlined the BNP’s vision for Bangladesh’s foreign relations. In May this year, he stressed the need for elections and reforms, questioning Yunus’s authority to make long-term foreign policy decisions.
Bangladesh first policy
Tarique Rahman has emphasised that Bangladesh’s interests come first, rejecting closer ties with India or Pakistan. “Not Dilli, Not Pindi, Bangladesh before everything,” he declared at a rally in Dhaka, urging supporters to repeat the slogan. This stance contrasts sharply with interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who has sought closer ties with Pakistan, and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who balanced relations with India and China.
BNP at centre stage
The BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, is a key player in the upcoming February elections, especially with Sheikh Hasina’s party barred from participation. Tarique faces the challenge of uniting the country if elected. His party has already started campaign preparations, including collecting nomination papers for key constituencies like Bogura-6 and Bogura-7. Tarique has positioned himself as a champion of democracy, promising reforms and a return to an elected government.
Political alliances and challenges
The BNP has historical alliances with Jamaat-E-Islami Bangladesh, though tensions remain over election strategies. Tarique’s party faces pressure to counter opposition groups while navigating the complex political and security landscape of the country. Despite years in exile, he continues to influence BNP strategy and rally support for his campaign.
Return amid unrest and security concerns
Tarique Rahman’s return comes at a time of heightened tension in Bangladesh, with attacks on media outlets and cultural organisations following the killing of protest leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Authorities have identified at least 31 suspects, and several arrests have been made.
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has conducted high-level security meetings to ensure safety during Rahman’s homecoming, as well as for Christmas, New Year celebrations, and the upcoming elections. Yunus has pledged to maintain law and order “at any cost” ahead of the polls.
The attacks on prominent media outlets, including Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, have drawn widespread condemnation and intensified concerns about press freedom in the country.