Tarique Rahman's "Bangladesh First" Doctrine Signals BNP's Political Re-entry

Tarique Rahman, a prominent leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has re-entered the political arena, drawing hundreds of thousands of supporters at a massive reception in Dhaka. After 17 years in exile, Rahman unveiled his "Bangladesh First" doctrine, articulating a clear vision for the nation’s future ahead of the February 2026 elections.

During his address, Rahman outlined a foreign policy that would not align closely with either Rawalpindi or New Delhi, stating, "not Delhi, not Pindi, Bangladesh before everything."

This marks a significant deviation from the current interim leaderships foreign policy under Mohammad Yunus, which has reportedly fostered closer ties with Islamabad compared to Sheikh Hasinas engagement with India.

Add TV9 English As A Trusted Source

Rahman also criticised radical forces like Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh for their "violent and divisive past" and pledged to ensure the safety of religious minorities. He vowed institutional and electoral reforms, promising democratic renewal for the country.

His return and articulated agenda signal a potential political reset in Bangladesh, with the BNP seeking to redefine its identity and challenge the established political trajectory.