The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is preparing for the National Assembly election in February. But the party now faces a major challenge. Its chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia, is fighting for her life in the Coronary Care Unit of Dhaka’s Evergreen Hospital. The 79-year-old former prime minister served two terms—in 1991–1996 and 2001–2006. Her sudden health decline has shaken the party’s leadership and its supporters.
Tarique Rahman Hesitates to Return
Khaleda Zia’s only surviving elder son, Tarique Rahman, lives in London. His return to Bangladesh has become a major question. BNP workers want him to be by his mother’s side, but he has not confirmed any travel plans.
Tarique left Bangladesh years ago. He faced several criminal cases, including bribery, money laundering, extortion, and links to international crime networks. Authorities also accused him of maintaining ties with India’s Dawood Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Karachi. Sheikh Hasina’s government filed these cases after returning to power. Tarique fled to London before police could act and has remained there since.
He still communicates with BNP leaders online. But his mother’s critical condition has increased pressure on him to return. Despite this, he remains unsure. Party insiders believe he still fears arrest or legal action.
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Interim Government Clears the Air
Today, Shafiqul Alam, the press adviser to the interim government, issued a clear statement. He said Tarique Rahman faces no legal bar to enter Bangladesh. He added that Tarique is free to return whenever he wishes. The statement aimed to remove confusion, but many BNP members still doubt he will travel soon.
BNP Leaders Focus on Khaleda’s Treatment
BNP secretary-general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir did not speak much about Tarique’s return. While talking to reporters in Dhaka, he focused only on Khaleda Zia’s treatment.
“Bangladeshi and foreign specialist doctors are treating Begum Zia. We pray for her fast recovery,” he said. He added that the party may move her abroad for advanced care if doctors recommend it.
Across Bangladesh, BNP supporters are offering prayers for Khaleda Zia. The party’s internal strength and election strategy now depend heavily on her recovery and Tarique Rahman’s next move. The coming days will shape both the party’s future and the political environment ahead of the elections.
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