Bangladesh witnessed a major political moment on Thursday as BNP acting chief Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka after nearly 17 years in exile. His homecoming came at a time when the country is facing unrest following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi.
Rahman, the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, received a massive welcome from supporters in the capital. Party leaders described the turnout as one of the largest gatherings seen in recent years. The rally took place at 300 Feet Road, where Rahman addressed supporters for the first time since his return.
Massive Rally in Dhaka Draws Lakhs of Supporters
From early morning, crowds gathered along key routes to welcome the BNP leader. Supporters waved party flags, chanted slogans, and waited for hours to catch a glimpse of him.
The rally venue remained packed as Rahman arrived and took the stage. Security forces stayed on alert as the crowd swelled. Despite the scale of the gathering, the event remained largely peaceful.
Tarique Rahman’s Message: Patience and Caution
During his address, Rahman urged his supporters to remain calm and disciplined. “Agents of various dominant powers are still engaged in conspiracies. We must remain patient. We have to exercise caution,” he said, urging people not to fall into any trap or respond to provocation.
He avoided naming any specific force but stressed the need for restraint during a sensitive political phase.
Call for Unity Across Religion and Region
Rahman focused strongly on national unity. He said Bangladesh belongs to everyone, regardless of faith or geography. “The time has come for all of us to build the country together. This country belongs to people of the hills and the plains, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians.”
He added that citizens want safety, freedom of speech, and the return of democratic rights. According to him, people want a Bangladesh where everyone can step out of their homes and return safely.
‘I Have a Plan’: Rahman’s Vision for Bangladesh
Invoking American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., Rahman said he “has a plan” for the country. He linked his vision to the sacrifices made during the 1971 Liberation War and the student uprising of 2024.
“This plan is for the interest of the people, for the development of the country, for changing the lot of the country.”
He appealed for public support to turn that plan into reality. “If you stand beside us, God willing, we will be able to implement my plan.”
Appeal to Maintain Law and Order
Rahman also asked citizens from all political backgrounds to work together for stability. “Whatever political party we belong to, whatever religion we believe in, whether we are non-partisan individuals, all must join hands to maintain law and order.”
He said political differences should not come in the way of peace and national progress.
Tarique Rahman’s return is seen as a turning point ahead of the upcoming elections. As BNP’s acting chief, he is expected to play a key role in shaping the party’s strategy and messaging.
His homecoming has energised supporters and reshaped the political conversation at a time when Bangladesh stands at a crossroads.