‘Bangladesh Would Not Exist Without…’: Is Tarique Crossing Line After His Mother’s Death?

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has reiterated that the very existence of Bangladesh is rooted in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan, local media reported. Speaking during a meeting with leaders of the Democratic United Front (DUF), a coalition of Bangladesh’s left-leaning parties, Tarique emphasised that the country’s foundation and politics are inseparable from the Liberation War.

“The Liberation War is the foundation of Bangladesh as a state and its politics. The country’s very existence cannot be imagined without 1971,” Bangladeshi media outlet BSS quoted Tarique as saying. He added that recent political changes in the country offer new possibilities, urging all parties, including the government and opposition, to work together to move Bangladesh forward.

Return from Exile Amid Political Turmoil

After 17 years of self-imposed exile, Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on December 25, landing at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with his wife, Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Zaima Rahman. His homecoming coincides with mounting political unrest and the announcement of the 13th national parliamentary election, along with a referendum on the July Charter, scheduled for February 12, 2026.

Bazlur Rashid Firoz, General Secretary of Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BSD), summarised Tarique’s remarks: “Without the Liberation War, Bangladesh’s existence is not possible.” He highlighted Tarique’s call for national unity, urging the country to honour the aspirations of past uprisings while addressing pressing issues such as law and order and ensuring free, fair, and broadly accepted elections.

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Vision for a Democratic, Welfare-Oriented Bangladesh

Tarique Rahman outlined the BNP’s plan to build a liberal, democratic, and welfare-oriented state, emphasizing that the people would remain at the centre of politics. “We have a plan to work in that direction, learning from the past,” he said.

Often described as the “crown prince” of Bangladeshi politics, Tarique is the eldest son of former President Ziaur Rahman and three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His political lineage has made him a central figure in the BNP, particularly during a period of political unrest and ahead of the February 2026 elections.

With his return and renewed calls for unity, Tarique Rahman aims to position the BNP as a key force in shaping Bangladesh’s democratic future, while highlighting the enduring significance of the 1971 Liberation War.

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