Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on Thursday after more than 17 years in exile, marking a major political moment amid ongoing unrest and ahead of the country’s next general elections. His homecoming has reshaped the political landscape at a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a fragile transition. Rahman, the elder son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, arrived in Dhaka from London along with his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter. Large crowds of BNP supporters gathered along key routes in the capital to welcome him, waving party flags and chanting slogans as heavy security arrangements were put in place to manage the massive turnout.

Soon after his arrival, Rahman addressed supporters, calling for unity and promising to work toward building a peaceful, inclusive and democratic Bangladesh. He appealed to citizens across political, religious and regional lines to participate in the country’s democratic process and stressed the need to restore public trust in state institutions. Rahman’s return comes during a period of political uncertainty following months of protests that led to the exit of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. An interim administration headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is currently overseeing governance and preparing the ground for national elections. The Awami League’s exclusion from the upcoming polls has further altered the political balance, giving the BNP renewed momentum.

Seen as a key contender for national leadership, Rahman’s return is expected to energise the BNP’s base and consolidate the party’s position ahead of elections scheduled for early next year. Party leaders described his homecoming as a turning point after years of political suppression and exile. After arriving in Dhaka, Rahman also visited his ailing mother, Khaleda Zia, at a hospital, marking an emotional reunion after years of separation. Supporters hailed the visit as symbolic of both a personal and political return.

While BNP supporters celebrated the moment, critics cautioned that the heightened political mobilisation could deepen tensions in an already volatile environment. Analysts say Rahman’s re-entry into active politics will play a decisive role in shaping Bangladesh’s future, as the country navigates one of its most consequential political phases in recent years.