Is Tarique Rahman Ready to Contest Elections from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6?
Synopsis
In a significant political move, Tarique Rahman, the BNP's acting Chairman, will contest in the upcoming general elections. This marks a pivotal moment for the BNP as Rahman returns to the political arena after years abroad. Can he navigate the current turbulent political landscape and emerge victorious?
Key Takeaways
Tarique Rahman is contesting in Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 .
His return follows a long absence abroad.
The elections are set for February 12 .
The BNP plans to cooperate with the Election Commission .
Political analysts view this as a crucial test for the BNP.
Dhaka, Dec 28 (NationPress) Tarique Rahman, the acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is set to run for election in the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies during the general elections planned for next year, as reported by local media on Sunday.
The announcement was made by BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed during a press briefing on Sunday. He added that the Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP) Chairman, Andaleeve Rahman Partho, will contest from Bhola-1 instead of Dhaka-17, according to The Daily Star.
Rahman visited the BNP's Gulshan Chairperson's Office on Sunday, marking his first visit since its establishment in 2008. Sayrul Kabir Khan, a member of the BNP media cell, stated that Rahman arrived at the office around 1:43 p.m. (local time) and engaged in discussions with standing committee members.
Post-meeting, BNP leader Khandaker Mosharraf remarked: "Our acting Chairman held office for the first time today. We discussed election-related matters and decided to cooperate with the Election Commission. There was no formal meeting today; we talked about organizational issues and the election."
In other news, the Election Commission approved Rahman's inclusion in Bangladesh's voter list ahead of the national election and referendum scheduled for February 12, as reported by United News of Bangladesh. Ruhul Amin Mallik, EC Director of Public Relations, confirmed, "The inclusion of Tarique Rahman in the voter list has been approved by the Election Commission."
On Saturday, Rahman and his daughter Zaima Rahman completed their registration for the National Identity Card (NID) and voter enlistment. They were registered as voters in the Dhaka-17 constituency under DNCC Ward No. 19 in the Gulshan area.
Rahman returned to Bangladesh on December 25, along with Zubaida Rahman and Zaima Rahman, after spending nearly 17 years abroad. His return coincides with the announcement by the EC of the 13th national parliamentary election and a referendum regarding the July Charter, both set for February 12 next year.
Political analysts believe that Rahman's re-entry and candidacy in the upcoming elections will serve as a crucial test amidst the current political turbulence in Bangladesh, which is under the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus and facing increasing pressure to ensure a fair and credible election.
Critics express concerns that Rahman's return to Bangladesh's tumultuous political scene could escalate tensions nationwide.
Point of View
I believe Tarique Rahman's return heralds a critical juncture for Bangladesh's political landscape. The BNP faces significant challenges, yet Rahman's experience could be a key asset. The upcoming elections will test the party's resilience under the interim government. It is essential for all parties to prioritize democratic values and ensure a fair electoral process.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tarique Rahman?
Tarique Rahman is the acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a significant political figure in Bangladesh.
What constituencies will Tarique Rahman contest?
Tarique Rahman will contest from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 in the upcoming elections.
When are the general elections in Bangladesh?
The general elections are scheduled for February 12 next year.
Why is Tarique Rahman's return significant?
His return after nearly 17 years abroad marks a pivotal moment for the BNP and could influence the party's performance in the elections.
What concerns exist regarding Rahman's return?
Critics warn that his return could heighten tensions in Bangladesh's already volatile political environment.
