Tarique Rahman's November return tied to 'ifs and buts'

The prospect of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman's homecoming has resurfaced amid speculation, nearly 14 months after the ouster of the "fascist" Hasina regime on August 5 last year—infamously dubbed "36 July". Despite repeated calls in the political arena for the political heir of late President Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia to end his long exile, Tarique remains in London.

Responding to queries from party leaders, activists and the public, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir had said just days ago: "Tarique Bhai will return home soon." Pressed on the timeline, he reiterated: "He will surely return—very soon."

While Fakhrul and several National Standing Committee members have hinted at an imminent return over the past few months, Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has for the first time pegged November as the likely month. Speaking to journalists at his Gulshan residence yesterday, Friday (October 24), Salahuddin said: "Tarique Rahman will return in November." He refrained from specifying the exact date, adding: "The day and date will be announced once preparations are complete."

However, multiple BNP senior leaders, speaking anonymously, noted that while November remains possible for the acting chairman's return, it is far from certain. His swift homecoming is deemed urgent ahead of the long-awaited national polls slated for February. "The sooner he returns, the better for BNP," one said, given the tight election timeline. Yet, the uncertainty is intertwined with familial duties—particularly towards his ailing mother.

Sources indicated Khaleda Zia, BNP chairperson and former premier, may need to travel to London urgently for medical follow-up, as advised by physicians. "Madam has undergone complex surgeries and treatments there; regular check-ups are essential," a leader explained. Her physical condition has improved somewhat, but full recovery demands international-standard care, making it the top priority. Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, Khaleda's personal physician and Standing Committee member, told The Daily Campus: "Her London trip isn't confirmed yet—no decision has been made. But if needed, she may have to go."

Earlier this year, on January 8, Khaleda flew to London for advanced treatment, staying nearly a month in hospital before recuperating at son Tarique's residence, where follow-ups continued. She returned home on May 6 with family, including Tarique, to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr.

Upon his return, Tarique is expected to head to Gulshan residences 79 (mother's rented flat Firoza Manzil) and 196. The latter, built on one-and-a-half bighas of land during Justice Abdus Sattar's tenure, was allotted in Khaleda's name but lacked title deeds for years. The interim government handed over the documents on June 4, after which renovations are underway.

BNP sources revealed procedures for Tarique's return—including a travel pass via the Bangladesh High Commission in London—are progressing. Currently on Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status in the UK, he enjoys rights to permanent residency, work and study, with potential for British citizenship.

Tarique has been in London since September 11, 2008, when he left with wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima for medical reasons during the military-backed 1/11 caretaker government. From exile, he has steered BNP remotely.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said: "As the symbol of Bangladeshi nationalism, Tarique has faced domestic and foreign conspiracies to finish him off, smeared with false allegations. He returns as Bangladesh's leader. The nation counts the days, awaiting him with bated breath."

BNP is prioritising Tarique's security post-return, with leaders coordinating with the interim government. Preparations include procuring a bulletproof minibus for Khaleda and an SUV for Tarique, pending home ministry nod via Special Branch vetting.