17 Years in the Making: Tarique Rahman’s Million-Strong Return to Bangladesh

He left in silence, but he's returned to a roar. Over one million supporters flooded the streets of Dhaka as Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), touched down on home soil after 17 years in exile. The scene at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport wasn't just a welcome; it was a massive display of political strength that brought the capital to a complete standstill.

From London Exile to Political Center Stage

Rahman had been living in London since 2008, fleeing what he described as politically motivated charges under the previous regime. His return follows the dramatic ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier this year, after a student-led uprising forced her to flee to India. For the million people lining the streets, Rahman’s arrival marks the definitive end of an era and the beginning of a high-stakes transition for the state.

A Nation at a Crossroads

While the BNP is pushing for immediate elections, the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus remains focused on systemic reforms. Rahman faces the daunting task of unifying his party and navigating the complex legal hurdles still standing against him. Analysts suggest that his presence will likely accelerate the timeline for democratic polls, as the interim administration feels the pressure of the BNP's massive street power.