Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is poised to return to Bangladesh. This announcement comes from BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, following the resignation and departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Rahman, who has been living in exile, is widely believed to be the mastermind behind the ‘India Out’ campaign, a movement that gained momentum in Bangladesh after Hasina’s return to power.
Alamgir expressed that Rahman had been forced into exile due to “false cases,” and emphasized his strong support for the ongoing movement against the current political regime. “We have taken steps to bring him back to the country immediately. Insha’Allah, we will be successful,” he stated. The BNP leader also mentioned plans for the immediate release of Begum Khaleda Zia and other political prisoners, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape.
The BNP has had a tumultuous relationship with India, often accusing the neighboring country of interfering in Bangladesh’s domestic politics. The ‘India Out’ campaign was a direct manifestation of this sentiment, alleging that Hasina had secured electoral victories with New Delhi’s backing. This campaign was not only a boycott of Indian goods but also a broader attempt to undermine Hasina’s government and court the support of hardline groups like Jamaat-E-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam. The BNP, as the main opposition party, had previously boycotted the general elections in January, further highlighting its discontent with the political status quo.
The campaign’s rhetoric and actions bear similarities to movements in other regions, such as the Maldives, where political figures like Mohamed Muizzu have also expressed anti-India sentiments. In Bangladesh, the campaign attracted support from radical groups like Jamaat-E-Islami, which advocates for Sharia law in the country. Jamaat, banned from participating in elections by the Supreme Court, has a history of opposition to the Awami League and its policies.
Tarique Rahman’s history is marked by legal controversies and accusations of political violence. In October 2018, he was sentenced to life imprisonment in absentia for his involvement in a 2004 plot to assassinate Sheikh Hasina. The attack, which occurred during an Awami League rally, targeted Hasina, who was then the Opposition leader. Although Hasina survived, the attack resulted in the death of Ivy Rahman, a prominent Awami League leader and wife of former President Zillur Rahman. Tarique Rahman was declared a “fugitive” and has since lived in London.
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In addition to the assassination plot conviction, Rahman faced further legal troubles in August 2023. He was sentenced to nine years in jail, while his wife received a three-year sentence, for accumulating wealth beyond their declared income. The Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge found the couple guilty of amassing illegal wealth and concealing information about it. These convictions have been a significant hurdle for Rahman, but they have not diminished his influence within the BNP or his support among certain factions within Bangladesh.
The return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh could signal a new phase in the country’s political dynamics. With Sheikh Hasina’s departure and the current uncertainty, the BNP, along with its allies, appears poised to assert itself more forcefully. The potential release of Khaleda Zia and other political prisoners could further galvanize their base and shift the balance of power.
However, the situation remains complex and fluid. The BNP’s strategy will likely depend on a range of factors, including international reactions, the stance of the Bangladesh military, and the response from the general public. As Tarique Rahman prepares to return, Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, with significant implications for its political future and regional relations. The unfolding events will be closely watched, both within the country and beyond, as stakeholders seek to navigate this uncertain landscape.
