Dhaka, Jan 6 (NationPress) Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has emphasized that the essence of Bangladesh is inseparable from the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan, as reported by local media.

He stated, “The Liberation War serves as the cornerstone of Bangladesh's identity and its political landscape. It is impossible to envision the country’s existence without the events of 1971,” as per the Bangladeshi news outlet BSS. This remark was made during a gathering with leaders from the Democratic United Front (DUF), a coalition consisting of leftist parties in Bangladesh, at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Dhaka.

Tarique further asserted the necessity to capitalize on the new political dynamics and opportunities that have emerged following recent protests. “All entities, including the government and opposition, must collaborate to advance the nation,” he urged.

Highlighting the urgency of national solidarity, he noted that the current political moment should be harnessed to strengthen the democratic framework.

During this meeting, DUF leaders conveyed their condolences over the passing of Khaleda Zia, the BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, who died on December 30.

It was reported that the leaders discussed the current political climate with Tarique, who expressed apprehension about the law and order situation in the nation.

Moreover, he stressed the need for a fair, free, and credible national election and called for unity among all parties involved.

After the meeting, Bazlur Rashid Firoz, General Secretary of Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BSD), mentioned, “Tarique made it clear upon his return to the country on December 25 that the Liberation War is our foundation. Without it, Bangladesh would not be here today.”

Tarique returned to Bangladesh on December 25 after spending 17 years in self-imposed exile, amidst a growing political turmoil. He arrived at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, joined by his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman.

This return coincides with the Bangladesh Election Commission's announcement regarding the 13th national parliamentary election and a referendum on the July Charter, scheduled for February 12 next year.

Analysts believe that Tarique’s comeback and his involvement in the February 2026 elections will serve as a crucial test amid the ongoing challenges in Bangladesh’s politics under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which faces increasing pressure to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.