Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh: A Call for Unity Amid Political Turmoil

Tarique Rahman's First Address After 17 Years

Dhaka: Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), made a significant return to Dhaka after 17 years, urging citizens to unite for the sake of law and order during his first speech to supporters.

Addressing a large crowd at the July 36 Expressway shortly after landing, he emphasized the importance of collaboration across political and religious lines to ensure peace in the nation.

His appeal for unity comes in the wake of escalating unrest following the assassination of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, a key figure in last year's protests that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina administration.

At 60, Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is positioning himself as a strong candidate for the upcoming elections.

Quoting Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous phrase, 'I Have a Dream,' he expressed his vision for the country, stating, 'I have a plan for the people of my country and for my country.'

He outlined his intentions to foster development and improve the lives of citizens, calling for widespread support to realize his vision.

Rahman aspires to create a secure Bangladesh where individuals of all backgrounds can coexist peacefully, highlighting the nation's diversity.

He remarked, 'We have people from the hills and the plains in this country – Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. We want to build a safe Bangladesh, where every woman, man, and child can leave home safely and return safely.'

His call for solidarity comes as Jamaat-e-Islami, a former ally during the BNP's previous governance, has emerged as a key competitor in the forthcoming elections, especially after the interim government restricted the Awami League's participation under stringent anti-terrorism laws.

Rahman also took a moment to ask for prayers for his mother, Khaleda Zia, who is currently hospitalized and receiving treatment in the ICU.

With the Awami League barred from contesting, the BNP is seen as a frontrunner in the upcoming February elections.