Khaleda Zia's son to return to Bangladesh after 17 years of exile | Why it matters

New Delhi: Bangladesh is likely to witness a significant political change, as a key figure is scheduled to return on Thursday. Tarique Rehman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party will return to his country after being in a self-imposed exile in London for about 17 years.

Tarique is often referred to as the "crown prince" of Bangladesh, the label points to a political lineage that defines his identity. He is the eldest son of of the country’s founding military ruler and former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, the BNP chairperson who served three terms in office. His return comes at a time, when Bangladesh is facing political fragility, with communal violence frequently making headlines. Moreover, his homecoming, scheduled a month ahead of the 2026 elections, adds to the growing political suspense.

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The story traces its roots to the early 2000s, when Tarique was considered to be the immediate heir to his mother Khaleda Zia. However, his political career witnessed drastic turn after he has imprisoned for almost 18 months. After his release, Tarique decided to move to London with his family.

He never returned to his homeland again, but a played a key role in the BNP and was then appointed its acting chairman.

Tarique scheduled his return to Bangladesh at a time, when the country is grappling with communal tensions. Media houses and cultural organisations are being destroyed, following the killing of protest leader Osman Sharif Hadi. The Yunus-led government is organising high-level meetings, making preparations for the Christmas and New Year, as well as the New Year celebrations. The authorities are attempting to maintain the law and order amid the political unrest.

Media outlets such as Prothom Alo and The Daily Star were among those attacked, prompting widespread condemnation and raising concerns over press freedom.

Rahman has positioned himself as a champion of democracy and a return to elected rule, telling party workers earlier this month that “only democracy can save us.”

One of Rahman’s significant  interventions has been on foreign policy. In May, he questioned the interim government’s mandate to make long-term diplomatic decisions and articulated a “Bangladesh First” approach—summed up by the slogan: “Not Delhi, not Pindi, Bangladesh before everything.”