Tarique Rahman’s return draws global media attention

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after over 17 years in exile has garnered extensive coverage in international media.

India’s Hindustan Times headlined, “Who is Tarique Rahman? Khaleda Zia’s exiled son returns to Bangladesh politics,” highlighting him as the 60-year-old son of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman and political successor of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

The report noted that he had been living in London since 2008 and faced multiple legal cases, including charges of money laundering and a conspiracy to assassinate ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, but was cleared of all allegations following political changes.

British news agency Reuters reported, “Tarique Rahman seen as potential next Prime Minister, returns from exile ahead of elections,” noting that BNP aims to mobilise up to five million supporters for his reception, signaling strength ahead of the national elections scheduled for February.

India’s NDTV ran a feature titled, “Zia’s son returns from exile: Tarique Rahman’s game plan for Bangladesh,” outlining his stated vision for governance, foreign policy, and institutional reforms, including prioritising national interests over external alliances.

BBC noted BNP’s extensive preparations for his return. Upon arrival, Tarique Rahman is expected to pay respects at the grave of Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, visit the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, complete voter registration and NID formalities on December 27, and pay homage at Osman Bin Hadi’s grave at Dhaka University.

Reports also highlighted his previous public statements on foreign policy, including criticism of long-term decisions by interim authorities and a commitment to a balanced approach in international relations, differing from the current government’s strategy of closer ties with India and China while maintaining distance from Pakistan.