Bangladesh witnessed an extraordinary political moment as thousands of people poured onto the streets of Dhaka to welcome a leader whose return has been awaited for nearly two decades. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, anticipation and political symbolism as supporters gathered from early morning, lining roads and junctions to catch a glimpse of the man they see as a future leader.
The return marked the end of more than 17 years of self-imposed exile and signalled a potential turning point in the country’s political landscape. For many supporters, it was not just a homecoming, but a statement of resurgence, resilience and renewed hope ahead of crucial national elections.
Beyond the massive public reception, the visit also carries deep personal significance. Alongside political engagements, the journey includes an emotional family reunion, highlighting how personal circumstances and national politics have converged at this critical juncture.
Tarique Rahman Ends Long Exile With Dhaka Arrival
Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka from the United Kingdom, ending more than 17 years of living abroad. His arrival was greeted by an overwhelming show of support, with party workers and ordinary citizens gathering in large numbers despite tight security arrangements.
Rahman, 60, has remained a central figure in BNP politics even during his years away from the country. His return is being viewed as a decisive moment for the party, which is preparing for the upcoming general elections scheduled for February.
Supporters described the moment as historic, saying his presence on Bangladeshi soil has reinvigorated party morale and strengthened their belief in a political comeback.
Massive Crowd Marches To Welcome BNP Leader
From Banani Airport Road to Dhaka Airport, BNP supporters and leaders marched on foot to welcome Rahman. Roads were packed with people waving party flags, chanting slogans and celebrating what they see as a landmark day in the party’s history.
The scale of the turnout demonstrated the depth of grassroots support Rahman continues to command. Party leaders claimed that people travelled from different parts of the country just to witness his arrival.
The massive gathering also underscored the challenges for law enforcement, as authorities worked to manage traffic, ensure crowd control and prevent any untoward incident.
Family Accompanies Rahman On Historic Return
Rahman returned to Bangladesh with his wife, Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter, Zaima Rahman. The family’s presence added a deeply personal dimension to the political event, resonating with supporters who have followed their journey over the years.
In a detail that caught public attention, the family’s pet cat also travelled with them, symbolising a sense of permanence and homecoming rather than a short political visit.
Close aides accompanied the family, reflecting the careful planning and coordination behind the high-profile return.
Bulletproof Convoy And Heightened Security
Upon landing, Rahman was received by senior BNP Standing Committee members at the airport. From there, he travelled in one of two bulletproof vehicles that were specially arranged for his movement through the city.
Security was visibly tight along the route, with police deployed in large numbers and strategic checkpoints set up to manage the flow of people and vehicles.
Authorities said the enhanced measures were necessary given the size of the crowds and the sensitive political climate in the country.
Grand Reception At Purbachal Planned
Rahman was scheduled to attend a large reception in the 300 Feet area of Purbachal, where party leaders and activists lined both sides of the road to greet him.
The event was designed as a show of strength for the BNP, with senior leadership and prominent figures present on stage. However, only Rahman was set to address the gathering.
Party sources indicated that expectations were high, with estimates suggesting that several million people could gather for the event.
Rahman To Address Supporters Directly
At the reception ceremony, Rahman’s address was expected to outline his vision, signal his political intentions and energise party workers ahead of the elections.
Supporters were eager to hear his message after years of leadership from afar, hoping for clarity on strategy, unity and the future direction of the BNP.
The speech was seen as a crucial moment that could shape the narrative of the upcoming election campaign.
Visit To Ailing Mother At Evercare Hospital
Following his public address, Rahman was scheduled to go to Evercare Hospital to visit his ailing mother, former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
She has been undergoing treatment at the hospital for over a month, and her health condition has been a matter of concern for party supporters and the wider public.
The hospital visit underscores the personal motivation behind Rahman’s return, blending family responsibility with political urgency.
Family Visit To Zia Residence Firoza
After meeting his mother, Rahman and his family planned to visit Firoza, the Zia family residence in Gulshan-2.
The visit carries symbolic value, marking a return to a place closely associated with the political legacy of the Zia family.
Security arrangements were intensified in the area to ensure the safety of the family during the visit.
Political Context Shapes The Timing
Rahman’s return comes at a time when the BNP is seen as politically resurgent following major shifts in Bangladesh’s power dynamics over the past year.
With long-standing rivals weakened and elections approaching, party insiders believe the timing could not be more significant.
Rahman’s presence is expected to play a central role in shaping alliances, mobilising voters and consolidating party leadership.
Public Sentiment And Election Outlook
Surveys and political observers suggest strong public interest in the BNP’s prospects, with many viewing Rahman as a leading contender for the prime ministerial role.
At the same time, concerns remain about potential unrest and challenges to the electoral process, making stability and leadership critical issues.
Rahman’s return has thus become more than a personal homecoming, evolving into a defining moment that could influence Bangladesh’s political future in the months ahead.
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