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Summary:

Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has announced his return to Bangladesh on December 25th after an 18-year absence. Speaking to supporters in London, Rahman called for unity and promised a welfare state if the BNP is elected. His return coincides with concerns about his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s, declining health. Rahman left Bangladesh in 2008 for medical treatment after being arrested and allegedly tortured.

News Article:

BNP’s Tarique Rahman Announces Return to Bangladesh After 18 Years in Exile

NEW DELHI – December 18, 2025 – Tarique Rahman, the acting chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has announced his long-awaited return to Bangladesh after an 18-year absence. Rahman made the announcement during a celebration of Bangladesh’s liberation in London on Tuesday, stating he would arrive on December 25th and seeking the blessings of his supporters.

“I am returning to our country and I seek your blessings for that. On December 25, Insha Allah, with your blessings and with the blessings of Allah, I will return to Bangladesh,” Rahman said.

Rahman urged supporters not to gather at Heathrow Airport upon his departure. He outlined a vision for a welfare state should the BNP regain power, focusing on support for families, farmers, and unemployed youth. He emphasized the need for unity and honest efforts in the upcoming elections.

His return comes amid growing concerns over the health of his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been hospitalized for several weeks. Zia, along with Sheikh Hasina of the Awami League, played a pivotal role in the anti-Ershad movement in 1990.

Rahman has been living in London since 2008 when he was granted bail and allowed to seek medical treatment following his arrest and alleged torture during the 2007-2008 military-backed interim government.

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