BNP expects millions to line streets for Tarique’s 'historic' return

After 17 years in exile, BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to return to Bangladesh on 25 December, a day the party hopes will be a historic moment and expect millions to greet him.

On Friday (12 December), Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the date, marking the first time the party has set a firm schedule after months of speculation and uncertainty about his arrival from London.

Since the announcement, party insiders said, supporters are elated over his return, and making arrangements to travel to Dhaka. However, no official directives have yet been issued to party activists.

Tanveer Ahmed Robin, secretary of Dhaka South unit of BNP, told The Business Standard that party activists at all levels, together with the general public, will line the streets to welcome Tarique Rahman.

"On that day, Bangladeshis will witness something extraordinary. Tarique's return will be inscribed in the nation's history," he said.

Abdul Monayem Munna, president of the Jubo Dal, said, "It's not just the party – citizens nationwide are eagerly awaiting his arrival. There is immense excitement and anticipation."

Earlier, Fakhrul addressed activists, saying, "Our leader will soon be among us. The day our leader arrives and sets foot in Bangladesh, the whole country should shake."

Awaiting central directives

BNP activists across the country are making preparations, but central guidance is still awaited. Robin said, "We expect directives in the next two days and will follow them fully."

Nasir Uddin Nasir, general secretary of Chhatra Dal, added that discussions are ongoing to make the day memorable, with a formal briefing to the media once plans are finalised.

Senior joint secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said specific arrangements will be announced closer to the day.

Excitement among supporters

Since the announcement of his return by Mirza Fakhrul last Friday, party leaders and grassroots supporters have expressed widespread joy and enthusiasm.

Rizvi said the announcement fulfilled long-held national expectations. "Grassroots activists are even more excited, cheerful, and motivated. Everyone's confidence has grown significantly," he said.

Robin added, "I have seen boundless joy among supporters. They are eagerly awaiting 25 December. There is a festive atmosphere, and everyone is planning how to welcome the leader."

Two rooms reserved at Firoza

Tarique will reside at 196 Gulshan-2, near BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia's residence, Firoza. The duplex, spread over 1.5 bigha, includes a swimming pool, three bedrooms, and spacious living areas.

Preparations are ongoing, and if the residence is not ready, he will temporarily stay at Firoza, where two rooms have been reserved for him.

Govt assures full security for Tarique

Home Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday assured that the government will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of Tarique.

"There is no apprehension regarding his security. We will arrange every possible measure to ensure his safety," he told the media after a meeting on law and order at the Secretariat.