Khaleda Zia Returns, But Why Is Tarique Rahman Not Coming Back? Questions Arise

Ajay Bangali

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s return to Bangladesh has stirred the political scene, but her son and acting chairman Tarique Rahman remains in the UK, raising questions among BNP supporters.

Tarique Rahman left for the UK in 2008 citing medical reasons and has been leading the party from abroad for nearly 17 years. He also holds refugee status granted by the British government.

Questions have surfaced about whether his return is politically or personally constrained.

Political Barriers to Return?
Under the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, which took over after the Awami League left power on August 5, 2024, efforts are being made to ensure participatory elections. However, sources close to the interim government suggest they prefer Tarique Rahman to remain abroad, fearing his return could energize the BNP and disrupt the current political stability.

An intelligence official remarked, “If Tarique Rahman returns now, it could reignite BNP’s momentum around protests and elections, destabilizing the situation before the polls.”

Tarique Rahman’s Hesitation
Tarique Rahman was arrested during the caretaker government in 2007 and left for the UK a year later. During the Awami League’s tenure, he was sentenced in several cases, including life imprisonment for the 2004 grenade attack on an Awami League rally.

Although higher court rulings have stayed some sentences, sources say Tarique remains undecided about returning. Allegedly, he harbors guilt over past actions, which may be hindering his re-entry into active politics.

BNP leaders suggest Tarique fears renewed activation of legal cases and potential imprisonment if he returns before political conditions improve.

While grassroots BNP members emphasize the importance of on-ground leadership to boost morale and movement effectiveness, senior leaders believe Tarique’s current overseas position remains strategically safer.

Leadership Challenges
Since Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment in 2018, Tarique has been leading the BNP as acting chairman. Despite his virtual leadership, supporters argue that his absence from Bangladesh weakens the party’s foundation, especially with elections approaching.

Security analyst Aminul Haque commented, “Tarique’s return could reinvigorate the BNP, but his hesitation risks further weakening the party’s base.”

BNP Standing Committee member AZM Zahid Hossain expressed optimism, saying, “We believe circumstances will soon allow Tarique Rahman to return and take on national leadership.”