Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and former President Ziaur Rahman, returned to Bangladesh from London after 17 years. Currently serving as the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), he led the party to a decisive victory in the general elections. BNP secured 166 seats and was leading in several others, while Jamaat and its allies won 52 seats, Islami Andolon Bangladesh secured one seat, and others claimed six.
In the 299 constituencies, around 127 million voters exercised their franchise, with nearly half aged between 18 and 37. Approximately 4.57 million voters participated for the first time. Rahman himself contested from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies and won both seats. Updated figures later indicated BNP winning 181 seats, with Jamaat and allies securing 61.
Rahman, who left Bangladesh in 2008 and had been residing in London since then, landed at Dhaka airport on Thursday and received a grand welcome from BNP workers. He proceeded directly to the July 36 Expressway area, where party supporters gathered in large numbers. Addressing them, he called for unity in rebuilding the nation.
He stated that Bangladesh belongs to people of all regions and faiths, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. Emphasizing inclusivity and security, Rahman said the country must be built into a safe place where every woman, man, and child can step out and return home without fear.
His remarks come amid concerns over attacks on minorities following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government and the formation of an interim administration under Yunus. Reports of violence targeting minorities, particularly Hindus, have drawn global attention. Minority groups recently staged protests in Dhaka alleging inadequate protection, while India has also expressed concern over the safety of minorities in Bangladesh.