Tarique Rahman Returns Home After 17-Year Exile, Boosts BNP Ahead of Elections

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman made a symbolic return to Bangladesh on Thursday after more than 17 years, walking barefoot on the country's soil as thousands of party supporters gathered to welcome him. The move is seen as a significant boost for the BNP ahead of the February 12 parliamentary elections, as Rahman has emerged as a strong contender for the top post. Rahman, 60, son of ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, was accompanied by his wife and daughter upon arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, welcomed him. Rahman later shared a video on Facebook, showing him removing his shoes and walking barefoot on the grass, a gesture symbolizing his return to the country. Security was tight, with thousands of troops and police deployed across the capital to maintain order. Rahman's return comes at a tense time for Bangladesh, with the country facing renewed unrest following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The BNP is now widely viewed as the frontrunner in the upcoming election, after the Awami League was barred from contesting. Rahman had expressed his desire to be close to his mother during her illness, describing it as the natural desire of a son in a time of crisis. He is expected to visit Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital, where she is receiving treatment in the intensive care unit. Before departing the airport, Rahman spoke with interim government chief Muhammad Yunus, although details of the conversation were not disclosed. The return also takes place amid strained relations between Bangladesh and India, following the killing of Hadi and allegations of Indian involvement. The interim government has enforced strict security measures, including bans on drone use and limits on photography at the reception venue, to maintain order and control the situation.