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Tarique Rahman Returns, Sparks Rally Ahead of Elections

12/27/2025

46 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman, returned to Dhaka on December 25, 2025 after 17 years in exile.
His arrival drew a massive rally and signaled a potential shift ahead of the February 2026 elections amid Sheikh Hasina's ouster.
Analysts see Rahman as a frontrunner seeking to stabilize the country amid violence and political uncertainty.
Analysts say the return could energize the BNP, but he must connect.

History

Historical Context

Bangladesh's political landscape has been shaped by the rivalry between the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) since the 1990s. In 2008, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, won 230 of 300 parliamentary seats, marking a significant shift. Tarique Rahman's return in 2025, after 17 years in exile, could revitalize the BNP ahead of the February 2026 elections, impacting national stability.

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Story summary

Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman, returned to Dhaka on December 25, 2025 after 17 years in exile.
His arrival drew a massive rally and signaled a potential shift ahead of the February 2026 elections amid Sheikh Hasina's ouster.
Analysts see Rahman as a frontrunner seeking to stabilize the country amid violence and political uncertainty.
Analysts say the return could energize the BNP, but he must connect.

1 / 2