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Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 10:04 GMT by rediff.com
      Locales: BANGLADESH, UNITED KINGDOM, UNITED STATES

Tarique Rahman's Return: A Deep Dive into Bangladesh's Shifting Political Tides

Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 18th, 2026 - The return of Tarique Rahman, Senior Vice President of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), to Bangladeshi soil after 17 years of self-imposed exile, has sent ripples throughout the nation's political arena. His arrival on Monday was met with both fervent celebration from supporters and cautious apprehension from opponents, marking a potentially transformative moment for Bangladesh. While the initial reports focused on the fact of his return, a closer examination reveals a complex web of legal battles, political maneuvering, and public sentiment that will shape the trajectory of Bangladeshi politics for years to come.

Rahman's departure in 2009 stemmed from a barrage of allegations, primarily centering around corruption, money laundering, and extortion. These accusations, leveled during the tenure of the Awami League-led government, prompted a series of legal proceedings that ultimately led him to seek refuge in the United Kingdom. Though he maintained his position within the BNP hierarchy from abroad, influencing strategy and galvanizing his loyal base, his physical absence significantly hampered the party's ability to effectively challenge the ruling regime. The charges, while some have been dismissed, continue to be a point of contention and a potential obstacle as he re-enters the political fray.

The narrative surrounding Rahman's exile has always been hotly debated. Supporters characterize the legal cases as politically motivated, designed to silence dissent and weaken the BNP. They point to a perceived pattern of selective justice within the Bangladeshi legal system, arguing that prominent figures aligned with the Awami League have often escaped similar scrutiny. Conversely, critics maintain that the evidence presented against Rahman warrants serious investigation and that his return should be subject to due process.

BNP's Strategic Gamble and the Road Ahead

The BNP, having endured a period of relative political stagnation, views Rahman's return as a vital strategic injection. The party hopes his charismatic presence and organizational skills will reinvigorate their base, attract new supporters, and provide a much-needed boost to their electoral prospects. There is an expectation that Rahman will play a key role in shaping the party's platform for the upcoming elections, potentially advocating for a more inclusive and progressive agenda. However, reintegrating him into the party structure won't be seamless. Internal power dynamics and generational differences within the BNP could present challenges as Rahman attempts to assert leadership.

Analysts suggest several key areas where Rahman's influence will be immediately felt. Firstly, fundraising for the party is expected to receive a significant boost due to his established network of supporters both domestically and within the Bangladeshi diaspora. Secondly, the BNP's communication strategy is likely to be revamped, leveraging Rahman's media savvy and ability to connect with younger voters. Finally, his return could force a strategic shift in the BNP's approach to coalition building, potentially forging new alliances with other opposition groups.

Awami League's Calculated Response The Awami League's initial silence following Rahman's return is, in itself, a calculated response. Publicly condemning him immediately could be perceived as vindictive and fuel sympathy for the BNP. Instead, the ruling party is likely adopting a "wait and see" approach, closely monitoring Rahman's actions and gauging public reaction. A more assertive response, potentially involving renewed legal scrutiny or public campaigns highlighting the past allegations, is expected closer to the election cycle. Sources within the Awami League suggest a strategy of emphasizing stability and continuity, contrasting their track record with what they portray as the BNP's history of political volatility.

The Legal Labyrinth and Public Perception

The legal hurdles Rahman faces are substantial. While some cases have been dismissed or are in abeyance, several remain active, potentially leading to his re-arrest or further legal complications. This legal battle will undoubtedly be a key narrative throughout the coming months, shaping public perception and influencing the political climate. The independence and impartiality of the Bangladeshi judiciary will be under intense scrutiny.

More than just a political comeback, Rahman's return is a test of Bangladesh's democratic institutions. The manner in which the legal system handles his cases, the level of political tolerance exhibited by the Awami League, and the freedom afforded to the BNP to campaign and express their views will all be crucial indicators of the health of Bangladesh's democracy. The international community is also watching closely, with concerns raised about the potential for political unrest and the need for a free and fair election.

Ultimately, Tarique Rahman's journey from self-imposed exile back to the heart of Bangladeshi politics is far from over. His ability to navigate the legal complexities, rebuild trust with the public, and effectively lead the BNP will determine not only his own future but also the future of Bangladesh itself.