Will BNP's Tarique Rahman Make a Significant Impact Upon His Return to Bangladesh on December 25?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As Bangladesh gears up for its pivotal elections, the anticipated return of BNP's Tarique Rahman on December 25 could reshape political dynamics. His history, challenges faced, and the timing of his arrival amidst upcoming elections set the stage for a notable event in the country’s political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Tarique Rahman's return is set for December 25.
- The BNP will officially welcome him upon his arrival.
- He has been in exile since 2008.
- The 13th national parliamentary election is scheduled for February 12.
- His mother, Khaleda Zia, is also facing health challenges.
Dhaka, December 13 (NationPress) The acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Tarique Rahman, is set to land in Dhaka on December 25, according to local media reports released on Saturday.
The announcement was shared on Friday during a press conference held at the party's headquarters in Gulshan. BNP's Secretary General, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, stated that the party will officially receive and welcome Rahman upon his return to the capital.
Tarique Rahman was detained in 2007 amidst the political turmoil of the 1/11 period. After his release in 2008, he relocated to the United Kingdom with his family for medical treatment and has remained there ever since.
Following the uprising in July that resulted in the ousting of the democratically elected Awami League government on August 5 last year, various court rulings that had previously convicted Tarique Rahman in multiple cases were annulled.
In several other instances, he achieved acquittal through legal means.
His mother, Khaleda Zia, who heads the BNP, is also experiencing health challenges.
This planned return coincides with the Election Commission's announcement regarding the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, along with a referendum on the July Charter, scheduled for February 12 next year.
Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin delivered this announcement through a pre-recorded message aired on state-run Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar on December 11.
As per the election timetable, the deadline for submitting nomination papers is set for December 29. The verification of these nominations is planned from December 30 to January 4.
The last date for candidates to withdraw their nominations is January 26, while the election campaign is set to commence on January 22, as reported by Bangladeshi media outlet UNB.
February 2026 will mark the first time in the country’s electoral history that a national election will occur alongside a referendum.
Last month, the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus instructed the Election Commission to organize the referendum concurrently with the February 2026 elections, confirmed EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.
“The Cabinet Division sent a directive to the commission to initiate necessary preparations for the referendum,” an EC official was quoted as stating by the leading Bangladeshi newspaper The Business Standard.
Point of View
Especially given the nearing elections. While his past has been marred by controversy, his arrival may energize the BNP's base and challenge the current government. As always, the political atmosphere remains charged with uncertainty.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Tarique Rahman returning to Bangladesh?
Tarique Rahman is scheduled to return to Bangladesh on December 25.
Why did Tarique Rahman go to the UK?
He went to the UK for medical treatment after being released from prison in 2008.
What is significant about the upcoming elections?
The 13th national parliamentary election will take place on February 12, along with a referendum for the first time in Bangladesh's electoral history.
Who is Khaleda Zia?
Khaleda Zia is the head of the BNP and is currently facing health issues.
What role does the Election Commission play?
The Election Commission is responsible for organizing the elections and the upcoming referendum.
