After nearly 17 years in self-imposed exile in London, Tariq Rahman, acting leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is scheduled to return to Dhaka on December 25 ahead of national elections scheduled for February 2026.
Tarique Rahman, often referred to as the “crown prince” of Bangladeshi politics, is the eldest son of Ziaur Rahman, former president of the country’s founding military junta, and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who served as BNP chairman for three terms.
His return comes amid heightened political tensions, including violence, arrests and debate over the direction of the transitional government.
From political successor to exile
Tariq Rahman emerged as a powerful figure within the BNP in the early 2000s and was widely seen as his mother’s political successor.
But his career derailed amid the turbulence of Bangladeshi politics. He spent approximately 18 months in prison before being released in September 2008, after which he moved to the UK with his family.
Since then, he has lived abroad in formal exile, while continuing to influence party strategy from London.
Despite his absence, Rahman continued to play a central role within the BNP and was later appointed acting chairman. Supporters credit him with keeping the party intact through years of political repression, but critics accuse him of being a symbol of dynastic politics.
Return amid uncertainty and safety concerns
Rahman’s planned return coincides with a volatile law and order situation. Bangladesh has witnessed attacks on media outlets and cultural organizations following the killing of protest leader Sharif Osman Hadi.
Authorities said at least 31 suspects have been identified and several arrested.
The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus convened a high-level security meeting to review the situation, including Rahman’s return, Christmas and New Year celebrations, and preparations for upcoming elections.
In the run-up to the vote, Yunus vowed to maintain law and order “normalcy at all costs.”
Media outlets such as Prothom Alo and the Daily Star were also targeted, sparking widespread condemnation and raising concerns about press freedom.
Tariq Rehman’s political future
With former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s party, the Bangladesh Awami League, barred from contesting the general election, the BNP is widely seen as the frontrunner barring a major upset. Analysts say Rahman’s physical presence could energize the party’s already strong election campaign.
The BNP also has a complicated relationship with the interim government, with party leaders claiming there was pressure on Yunus to announce elections after months of deadlock.
Rahman has positioned himself as a champion of democracy and a return to elected governance, telling party officials earlier this month that “only democracy can save us.”
One of Mr. Rahman’s most notable recent interventions has been in foreign policy. In May, he questioned the caretaker government’s mandate to make long-term diplomatic decisions and articulated a “Bangladesh first” approach, encapsulated in the slogan “Bangladesh first and foremost, not Delhi or Pindi.”
This stance contrasts with Yunus’ support for Pakistan and departs from Sheikh Hasina’s strategy of forging closer ties with India while balancing relations with China.
