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Summary:

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is returning to Dhaka on December 25, 2026, after nearly 18 years in exile in the UK. His return marks the official launch of the BNP’s campaign for the upcoming February 12 general election. Despite recent violence in Bangladesh, Rahman’s plans remain unchanged. His return is seen as a major political event for the BNP, especially with Khaleda Zia’s absence. Rahman has expressed his views on social media, advocating for national unity and human rights. The BNP has condemned recent violent incidents and adopted an inclusive approach to address the situation.

News Article:

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

Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 25, 2025 – Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), arrived in Dhaka today, December 25, 2026, after nearly two decades in exile in the United Kingdom. His return marks the formal start of the BNP’s campaign for the February 12 general election.

Rahman, who left Bangladesh during the interim rule of 2007-08, was greeted by a large crowd of supporters at the airport. The interim government announced that the Dhaka elevated expressway would remain toll free during the day.

BNP sources say Rahman will address supporters and visit his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is hospitalized in the capital.

The return comes amidst heightened security concerns, following a recent bomb explosion in Dhaka. The BNP has furnished a house and purchased bulletproof vehicles for Rahman’s campaigning.

Rahman’s return is considered a significant political event for the BNP, particularly given the absence of Khaleda Zia from recent political activities.

Prior to his return, Rahman has been active on social media, advocating for national unity, human rights, and democratic principles. He has also expressed his condolences for recent acts of violence, including the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi. The BNP’s standing committee has condemned the recent violence and called for an inclusive approach to the current situation.

His return comes after speculation that he would come back after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5, 2024.

The political climate in Bangladesh remains tense as the country prepares for the upcoming general election.

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