'I Have a Plan'

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, addressing a large gathering at the 300 Feet Road (Purbachal) reception shortly after his arrival in Dhaka, invoked civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. by declaring: "We need to safeguard peace in Bangladesh at any cost. I have a plan, for the people of my country."

The phrase was interpreted by observers as a reference to King's famous "I have a dream" speech.

Rahman emphasised unity and peace in his brief remarks, stating: "We want peace in every possible way… if we remain united we can fulfill the expectations of the people."

He spoke to party leaders, supporters, and the nation during the short event organised on his way to Evercare Hospital to visit his mother, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on December 25 after 17 years in exile in London, arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport via a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman.

The reception at 300 Feet Road drew massive crowds, with supporters lining the route from the airport.