Tarique's return to fill 'political vacuum' in Bangladesh: Shafiqul Alam
He is the leader of the largest party in Bangladesh, and his coming will have a positive impact, says the press secretary
The return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to fill a "political vacuum" in Bangladesh and help ensure a smoother democratic transition, said Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser.
Speaking to journalists while exchanging Christmas greetings with members of the Christian community at Holy Rosary Queen Church in Tejgaon today (25 December), Shafiqul said Tarique Rahman's arrival would have a positive impact on the country's political landscape.
"We welcome him. He is the leader of the largest party in Bangladesh, and his coming will have a positive impact," Shafiqul said.
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He further said, "There is indeed a political vacuum in the country, and his return will help fill it. With a major election ahead and the country undergoing a democratic transition, we hope this process will be smoother after his arrival."
Asked about Tarique Rahman's security, Shafiqul said, "His party is looking after his security, and we are providing all the cooperation they have asked for."
Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh this morning. This marks the BNP leader's return to Bangladesh from London for the first time after more than 17 years in exile. His wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and their daughter Zaima Rahman also accompanied him.
After landing in Dhaka, he headed to a reception rally in the 300 Feet Road area in Purbachal, where party leaders and supporters gathered to welcome him.
Following the brief address in Purbachal, Tarique is expected to proceed directly to Evercare Hospital to visit his ailing mother, former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.
He will later head to his residence in Gulshan, a house he left behind nearly two decades ago.
The 60-year-old son of ailing former prime minister Khaleda Zia had lived in London since 2008 and led the BNP as acting chairman since 2018.
He had been unable to return while facing multiple criminal cases at home.
Tarique was convicted in absentia on charges that included money laundering and in a case linked to an alleged plot to assassinate former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
The rulings were overturned after Hasina was ousted last year in a student-led uprising, clearing the legal barriers to his return.
