BNP Acting Chairman to End Long Exile
Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has declared his intention to return to Bangladesh soon, ending a 17-year self-imposed exile in London. The announcement, made during an interview with BBC Bangla on Monday, October 6, 2025, confirms his plan to participate in the country's upcoming general elections.
Rahman, 59, is the eldest son of former Bangladeshi President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He has been living in London since 2008, citing politically motivated persecution as the reason for his departure.
Exile, Legal Battles, and Recent Acquittals
Tarique Rahman's long absence from Bangladesh was marked by numerous legal challenges. He faced a total of 84 cases filed against him after 2007, including charges of corruption, bribery, money laundering, illegal acquisition of wealth, and involvement in a 2004 grenade attack on a rally attended by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
During his exile, he was convicted in absentia in several cases, including a life sentence for the 2004 grenade attack and a nine-year prison sentence in a corruption case in August 2023. However, a significant shift occurred in 2024 following the fall of the Awami League government. Courts in Bangladesh have since acquitted him of the most serious charges, including the life sentence related to the grenade attack and a sedition case. His wife, Zubaida Rahman, was also acquitted in a wealth accumulation case in May 2025.
The Road to the 2026 General Elections
The upcoming general elections in Bangladesh are anticipated for February 2026, following a mass uprising in August 2024 that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's government. An interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, is currently overseeing the transition and has established commissions for constitutional and electoral reforms.
The BNP has been a vocal proponent of early elections, initially pushing for polls by December 2025, and has expressed dissatisfaction with earlier proposals for an April 2026 timeline. The party views an expedited election as crucial for restoring stability and democratic legitimacy.
Rahman's Political Aspirations
As the acting chairman of the BNP since February 2018, Tarique Rahman has been a central figure in the opposition, often described as the de facto leader. Despite his physical absence, he has maintained a strong connection with party supporters and has been active on social media.
In his recent interview, Rahman confirmed his intention to run in the upcoming elections, stating, 'I am running in the election.' He emphasized his commitment to being 'with the people, among the people' when the elections take place. The decision on whether he would assume the role of Prime Minister if the BNP forms the government, he stated, 'The people will decide.'
5 Comments
Leonardo
He's a convicted criminal, regardless of recent court decisions. This is a step backward for the nation.
Muchacha
Welcome back! The country has been waiting for his return and leadership.
Africa
The timing of these acquittals is highly suspicious. We haven't forgotten his corruption cases.
Coccinella
While his return could certainly invigorate the opposition and make the elections more competitive, the controversy surrounding his past legal battles will undoubtedly polarize voters even further.
Africa
It's a positive sign for democratic participation to see a major party leader re-engage, yet the circumstances of his lengthy exile and the sudden overturn of serious convictions raise questions about the integrity of the judicial process.