Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), departed from the VIP lounge of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport earlier today, boarding a pre-arranged bus en route to a grand public reception in East Dhaka’s 300-feet area. Tens of thousands of party supporters had gathered at the venue, eagerly awaiting his arrival, where he is expected to address the enthusiastic crowd.

Following the reception, Mr Rahman plans to visit BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital, Bashundhara. Later, he will proceed to his residence at House No. 196 in Gulshan.

This marks Mr Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after a 17-year hiatus. His flight, operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, touched down at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:40 am on Thursday, carrying him along with his wife and daughter. Upon arrival, he was warmly welcomed by his mother-in-law, Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, who garlanded him, and by several members of the BNP Standing Committee, who extended their greetings along with the rest of his family.

Earlier in the morning, at 9:55 am, the same Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight, BG-202, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, had landed in Sylhet before continuing its journey to Dhaka at 11:13 am. This carefully coordinated itinerary ensured a smooth transit from Sylhet to the capital, accommodating both protocol and security arrangements.

Key Timeline of Tarique Rahman’s Return:

The meticulously organised reception highlights the BNP leadership’s efforts to mobilise supporters and mark Mr Rahman’s return as a pivotal political moment. Thousands of party activists lined the route, cheering and waving banners, reflecting the anticipation and significance of his homecoming.