The political landscape of Bangladesh has shifted significantly since the Awami League government’s collapse in August 2024, bringing the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, into sharper focus. Despite living in exile in the UK since 2008, Rahman’s stature as a crucial political figure in Bangladesh has clearly risen.
A recent pivotal moment underscoring his importance was the meeting between Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Rahman in London from June 10-13. This discussion centered on setting a date for the upcoming general elections, highlighting Rahman’s perceived influence in the country’s political future. The meeting signals a notable shift, as leaders from different political factions in Bangladesh rarely engage in such direct dialogue, a stark contrast to the zero-sum politics prevalent under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
A Crucial Compromise and Averted Crisis
As the de facto leader of the BNP and the son of BNP founder Gen. Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman’s role in resolving a looming political deadlock was critical. The BNP had been threatening nationwide protests against the interim government led by Yunus due to disagreements over the election timeline.
Sources from both the government and the BNP confirm that the London meeting was cordial, leading to a significant breakthrough: an agreement to hold general elections in February 2026. This represents a crucial compromise, as the BNP had advocated for earlier elections by December 2025, while the interim government initially proposed April 2026, citing the need for constitutional, judicial, and electoral reforms. This agreement is hailed as “historic” in Bangladesh, signifying a mutual desire to avoid conflict and foster cooperation. Yunus’s close aides reportedly conveyed his positive impression of the BNP leader after the meeting.
Why the Meeting? Understanding Rahman’s Ascent
Two key questions emerge from these developments: why did Yunus need to meet Rahman, and what explains Rahman’s growing significance?
Yunus assumed the role of chief adviser after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster on August 5, 2024, a consensus decision forged by student leaders, the BNP, the Army, and other political parties. However, segments within the BNP grew concerned that Yunus was delaying election announcements, with some online voices even suggesting he remain in power for five years, fueling uncertainty.
The Army Chief, Waker-uz-Zaman, made a rare statement in May, advocating for elections in December. Soon after, Rahman echoed this call from London, emphasizing the public’s desire for immediate free and fair elections. Faced with mounting pressure and criticism, Yunus initially announced elections for April 2026, a timeline the BNP rejected for several reasons: the mild December weather is ideal for campaigning, while April is unsuitably hot and falls after Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer. The BNP also feared further delays. The London meeting thus appears to have successfully averted widespread unrest.
The Enduring Influence of Tarique Rahman
Despite past accusations of corruption and violence – including a conviction in a 2004 grenade attack that was later overturned and a ban on his speeches under the Awami League government – Tarique Rahman has maintained significant grassroots support. Diplomatic cables from figures like American diplomat James F. Moriarty once characterized him as a symbol of “kleptocratic government and violent politics,” yet his popularity among BNP activists remained.
During Khaleda Zia’s premiership (2001-2006), Rahman actively engaged with people across Bangladesh, building strong connections at the grassroots level. This groundwork proved invaluable when he became acting chairman of the BNP in 2018 after his mother’s arrest. Even from abroad, Rahman has leveraged technology, using WhatsApp and Zoom to connect with activists in remote villages, inquiring about their families and fostering a sense of direct engagement and pride among party members. These direct interactions have provided him with crucial insights, enabling him to shape political strategy and strengthen the BNP despite severe repression under the Awami League.
Tasneem Khalil, editor-in-chief of Netra News, praises Rahman’s “top-notch” organizational leadership and his ability to “speak the language of the grassroots.” Khalil views Rahman as a promising figure for a future liberal democratic Bangladesh, particularly in light of concerns about the rising influence of right-wing Islamists under Yunus.
Challenges Ahead
As Bangladesh moves forward, Rahman faces significant challenges. Upon his eventual return to Bangladesh, he will need to connect with millions of first-time voters, particularly Generation Z, who led the uprising against Hasina. Reports of infighting and extortion among some BNP activists have created a negative perception among some young people, a concern Rahman has addressed by expelling thousands of activists for unlawful activities to instill discipline.
Many argue that Rahman needs to return to Bangladesh to lead the BNP on the ground. However, BNP insiders suggest he will delay his return until the Yunus government formally announces the election date, at which point he will actively participate in the election campaign.
Rahman must be mindful that a key driver of the anti-Hasina uprising was the Awami League’s corruption and violence. To secure the BNP’s future, he must chart a distinct course, demonstrating a commitment to ethical governance and a clear break from past controversies to resonate with a new generation of voters.
What are your thoughts on how Tarique Rahman’s leadership might evolve as he prepares for a potential return to Bangladesh and a general election?
