Bangladesh's political scene is witnessing a dramatic transformation today. After 17 years of anonymity and a life of exile in London, Bangladesh's 'Crown Prince' Tarique Rahman has returned to Dhaka. In the span of these 17 years, Bangladesh's politics has been a delicate dance between democracy, liberalism, and extremism. In 2008, when former PM Khaleda Zia's son and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman was leaving Dhaka, it was an emotional farewell.
He was on the radar of the then government, facing severe accusations of corruption, bribery, and money laundering. He provided the interim Bangladeshi government with a written assurance and affidavit that he would not participate in the nation's politics. However, much has changed in these 17 years. Today, Tarique Rahman has broken his biggest promise by returning to Bangladesh.
Masses of Bangladeshis have flocked to the streets of Dhaka to welcome him. The general elections in Bangladesh are slated for February 12, 2026, and many predictions suggest that the public is poised to entrust power to the BNP.
The Minus Two Formula in Bangladesh...
From 2001 to 2006, BNP was in power in Bangladesh, with Khaleda Zia as the Prime Minister. However, her son Tarique Rahman was seen as the real power behind the throne. During this time, in 2004, the Dhaka grenade attack occurred, targeting a rally by Sheikh Hasina, who was then in opposition. Many VIPs lost their lives in this attack.
Tarique Rahman was named the main suspect in this attack. A Dhaka court sentenced him to life imprisonment.
Catch Every Update from Bangladesh Violence to Tarique Rahman's Comeback Live
Post-2006, Bangladesh experienced political turmoil. After Khaleda Zia's government ended its term in October 2006, electoral controversies led to a declaration of emergency in January 2007, followed by the establishment of a military-backed interim government led by Fakhruddin Ahmed. They initiated an anti-corruption drive, arresting hundreds of politicians, businessmen, and officials, a strategy known as the 'Minus Two' formula.
The Allegation of 20 Million Dollar Money Laundering
The 'Minus Two' formula aimed to diminish the influence of Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia from the Bangladeshi political landscape.
During this period, Tarique Rahman's mother and former PM Khaleda Zia was arrested.
Recalling Tarique Rahman's arrest, Khaleda Zia remarked,
"Tarique worked tirelessly for the country's progress but was ensnared in numerous fabricated cases due to national and international conspiracies. On March 7, 2007, he was whisked away right in front of my eyes into a car. But after his detention, my son had to be sent abroad on a stretcher for treatment."
It was indeed a troubling time for the BNP. The Hawa Bhavan corruption case brought charges of 20 million dollar money laundering against Tarique Rahman. Additionally, a case related to the misuse of 21 million taka from the Zia Charitable Trust was also pursued.
The Affidavit of Not Returning to Politics
In the midst of all this, in 2008, Khaleda Zia was released. But Tarique Rahman paid a hefty price for this. He sought government permission to travel to London for medical treatment. Tarique was granted permission but was required to submit a written affidavit committing not to return to Bangladeshi politics.
That affidavit now lies buried under the sands of time. In 2024, after Sheikh Hasina's government fell, Tarique Rahman was released from all charges against him. He was acquitted, and Khaleda Zia's health remains precarious as she is on a ventilator.
In this context, Bangladesh eagerly awaits the return of its 'Crown Prince' who has been in 'exile' for 17 years.
On December 8, 2009, Tarique Rahman was elected the Senior Vice Chairman at the BNP's 5th National Council held in Dhaka. During the event, his recorded speech was played, in which he recounted his detention and the torture he faced under the 1/11 government that assumed power in January 2007. He alleged that there was a 'conspiracy' to kill him under the guise of justice through torture.
From London, Tarique started engaging in 'Facebook politics,' yet maintained a low profile. His involvement in party activities remained, though discreet.
Boycott of 2014 Elections
BNP called for a boycott of the 2014 elections. Tarique refuted rumors regarding his British citizenship and in 2015 registered a consultancy firm in the UK. Despite staying with family during these years of exile, he remained interconnected with Bangladesh's political scene.
According to BNP insiders, it was a challenging period for him where he focused on strengthening the party while staying out of public life. In 2018, Sheikh Hasina attempted to label him as a terrorist. Nevertheless, Tarique organized virtual rallies, interviewing candidates via Skype.
The student-led revolution of 2024 changed everything. The fall of Sheikh Hasina's administration led to an interim government promising reforms. Tarique was acquitted in all 84 cases against him, with some verdicts being overturned by the High Court. In June 2025, he met with Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus in the UK to discuss elections and reforms.
