WORLD NEWS
Tariq Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years, Sparks Political Excitement Ahead of 2026 Elections
Tariq Rahman, son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), returned to Bangladesh on Saturday after a 17-year absence, sparking widespread public excitement and political speculation.
Thousands of supporters gathered on the streets of Dhaka to welcome Tariq Rahman, waving party flags and chanting slogans, marking what many are calling a significant event in the country’s political landscape ahead of the general elections expected in February 2026.
Tariq Rahman had left Bangladesh in 2008 following an 18-month prison sentence and had gone to the United Kingdom for medical treatment and other personal matters. His return is seen by BNP supporters as a boost to the party’s organizational strength and morale ahead of the upcoming elections.
Political analysts suggest that Tariq Rahman’s presence could reshape campaign strategies for BNP, as his return coincides with growing political mobilization against the ruling party. The BNP has positioned him as a central figure in its preparations for the general elections.
While no official statements regarding his political plans were made immediately upon arrival, his reception in Dhaka indicates the strong influence and continued relevance of his family in Bangladesh’s political sphere.