Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17-Year Exile; BNP Prepares Grand Welcome

• Tarique Rahman, BNP acting chairman and Khaleda Zia's son, returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in London exile.
• He led BNP from abroad since 2008, overseeing party strategy and becoming acting chairman after his mother's imprisonment.
• During exile, he established White and Blue Consultants Limited in 2015, initially listing British nationality, later revised to Bangladeshi.
• His return follows the collapse of the Hasina government and coincides with the lead-up to the 2026 national elections.
• BNP plans a massive reception, expecting up to five million supporters, aiming to boost party legitimacy and electoral prospects.

Why It Matters: Rahman's return is a pivotal moment for BNP, aiming to unify the party and challenge for power in 2026 elections.