Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday made a strong appeal for unity, peace, and communal harmony, declaring that Bangladesh belongs equally to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians, amid growing political and social unrest in the country.
Rahman returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile and is widely seen as a frontrunner ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for February 2026. His homecoming comes at a sensitive time, with tensions running high following the killing of a student leader and concerns over violence against minorities.
Addressing a large gathering at a rally in the Purbachal area of Dhaka, Rahman promised to work towards building a safer and more inclusive nation.
“The time has come for all of us to build the country together. This country belongs to people of the hills and plains — Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. We want a Bangladesh where every woman, man, and child can leave home and return safely,” Rahman said, as quoted by local media.
Focus on Stability and Law and Order
Calling for calm and cooperation across political and religious lines, Rahman stressed that maintaining law and order must remain a collective priority.
“Regardless of our political beliefs or faiths, we must work together to uphold peace and dignity in Bangladesh,” he said, urging citizens to reject violence and instability.
His remarks assume added significance in the wake of international attention following the recent killing of a Hindu man in Mymensingh, which sparked outrage in India and renewed concerns over minority safety in Bangladesh. The incident was earlier condemned by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Emotional Homecoming After 17 Years
Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Thursday accompanied by his wife, daughter, and aides. In a symbolic gesture captured on video, he stepped out of the airport, removed his shoes, and touched the soil as a mark of respect for his homeland.
Thousands of BNP supporters gathered across the capital from early morning, welcoming him with banners, festoons, and patriotic songs. Streets were lined with posters depicting Rahman as the party’s next leader, reflecting expectations that he will formally assume a larger leadership role as his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, remains unwell.
Later in the day, Rahman visited Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital, where she has been undergoing treatment since late November.
Political Significance
With Bangladesh navigating political uncertainty and public unrest, Rahman’s return is seen as a turning point for the BNP. Party supporters believe his leadership could shape the political narrative ahead of the 2026 elections.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as Rahman continues his outreach and outlines his vision for governance, stability, and national unity.
