Thu Dec 25 17:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has returned to Bangladesh after nearly 18 years of self-imposed exile in London. He addressed a large rally in Dhaka, calling for unity, security, and the restoration of democratic rights. He criticized ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and warned against foreign interference. His return follows a period of violence and unrest, including attacks on minorities and media outlets. He thanked Interim Government leader Professor Muhammad Yunus for his support. Rahman’s speech did not directly attack the interim government, but his words were taken as criticism toward the current condition of law and order in Bangladesh. The BNP is launching its campaign for the February 2026 elections. The party is drawing parallels between recent events and historical turning points and criticizing the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
News Article:
BNP’s Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 18 Years, Vows Unity and Reform
Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 25, 2025 – Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), made a dramatic return to Bangladesh today after nearly two decades in self-imposed exile in London. His arrival sparked a massive rally in Dhaka, where he delivered a passionate speech calling for national unity, security, and the restoration of democratic rights.
Rahman, greeted by hundreds of thousands of supporters, emphasized the importance of a “secure” Bangladesh for all communities, regardless of religious or regional differences. He cautioned against the influence of “spies of hegemonic powers” and heavily criticized deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following a student-led uprising in 2024.
“In 2024, people of all sections of society came together to preserve this country’s freedom and sovereignty just in the way they worked in 1971 to earn our freedom,” said Mr. Rahman announcing that he has a “plan” to place the country back on track.
His return comes amidst a volatile period in Bangladesh, marked by escalating violence, including attacks on minority Hindu communities and the burning of newspaper offices. Rahman condemned the violence, urging calm and restraint. He called Chief Adviser of the interim government Prof. Mohammed Yunus and thanked him for his support. He also emphasized the need to protect the administrative machinery of the country and maintain law and order.
Rahman’s return marks the launch of the BNP’s campaign for the February 12, 2026, elections. The party is highlighting the legacy of Rahman’s father, General Ziaur Rahman, and drawing parallels between the current political climate and historical events, including the fall of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Campaign materials are also critical of Mujib’s leadership, pointing to economic failures and alleged abuses of power.
The return of Tarique Rahman significantly alters the political landscape of Bangladesh and sets the stage for a heated and potentially divisive election season.
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