Bangladesh Politics Update: Will Tariq Rehman’s return to Dhaka after 17 years be able to change the fortunes of BNP and what will be the future of electoral turmoil? Know the whole story between political unrest, elections and Khaleda Zia’s health.
Tarique Rahman Return Bangladesh: After 17 years of long exile, Khaleda Zia’s son and prominent BNP leader Tariq Rahman is all set to return to Bangladesh. His return is likely to create a stir in the country’s politics. The withdrawal comes just ahead of the national elections in February 2026, as the country grapples with political unrest, violence and law and order challenges. Can Tariq Rehman turn BNP’s fortunes around and revive the party’s fortunes in the elections?
Who is Tariq Rehman and why is he important?
Tariq Rehman is the eldest son of Khaleda Zia and former President Ziaur Rehman. He is considered the real leader of BNP. He was in London since 2008. Initially he had gone to UK for his medical treatment, but legal action was also going on against him in several criminal and corruption cases. This also includes the 2004 case in which a grenade attack was planned on the then opposition leader Sheikh Hasina and her party leaders. During his years in exile in London, Rahman considered it best to live abroad to avoid pressure and possible punitive action from Awami League governments. Now, his return to the country before the elections is being considered as a sign of new hope and political strategy for BNP.
Why is the timing of Tariq Rehman’s comeback important?
The timing of Tariq Rehman’s return holds special significance. His mother Khaleda Zia’s health is deteriorating and she is largely away from active politics. The law and order situation in the country is tense. Violence has increased recently following the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key leader of the July uprising. Protestors attacked media houses and cultural institutions, and vandalized near the parliament. In such a situation, Rehman’s return is being considered very important for strengthening BNP and handling the crisis of political leadership.
Rehman’s influence in BNP politics
The arrival of Tariq Rahman to the BNP could strengthen the party’s position ahead of the national elections. According to a poll by America’s International Republican Institute, the BNP is likely to win the majority of seats in February 2026. The party is running the election campaign on the issues of nationalism, anti-corruption policy and economic reforms. Also, BNP is emerging as the largest party in the country after Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League was barred from participating in the elections. Jamaat-e-Islami is also active in the elections and is likely to finish second after BNP.
What are the challenges to political stability in the country?
At the time of Tariq Rehman’s return, there is a situation of violence, political unrest and law and order crisis in the country. The killing of a student leader last week and the attack on government and private property by protesters made the atmosphere more volatile. In such a situation, Rahman will have to take his political steps thoughtfully.
Can Tariq Rehman change BNP’s fortunes?
This return can prove to be decisive for the country’s largest opposition party BNP. Amidst the lack of leadership, violence and political turmoil before the elections, the question arises whether Rehman will give new life to the party’s strategy and bring stability in the country’s politics?