Bangladesh to Revert to Democracy Under Tarique: Fakhrul

“The country will move forward on the democratic path through Tarique Rahman, and the people of the country will regain their democratic rights. His majestic return yesterday (Thursday) carries that message,” he said.

Fakhrul made the remarks while talking to journalists at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar before paying tributes at the grave of BNP founder and martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

He said people have warmly welcomed Tarique Rahman through a grand reception. “He has come with a message of change.”

Fakhrul said Tarique’s return is not just a political event but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s history.

“Through this return, a positive change has come to politics, and after a long period of stagnation, fresh air has begun to flow,” he said.

The BNP leader also said people have started dreaming again, and Tarique now stands at the centre of those hopes.

Expressing firm confidence, Fakhrul said Tarique would implement properly the far-reaching plans he has undertaken for the welfare of the people.

BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas said martyred President Ziaur Rahman had established multi-party democracy in the country, which was later upheld through tough struggles by Begum Khaleda Zia.

“Today, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, that democracy will fully blossom,” he said.

Abbas said the confusion and uncertainty among the public over election-related issues has been completely removed with Tarique’s return.

“Tarique Rahman’s presence has brought clarity to the political arena. People are now far more confident than before about a free and fair election,” he added.

Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on Thursday after spending nearly 17 years abroad. The aircraft carrying him, his wife Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter Zaima Rahman entered Bangladesh’s airspace earlier in the day.

His return has drawn wide public attention and strong emotions among BNP leaders, activists, and supporters across the country.

Tarique was greeted by a rapturous reception from hundreds of thousands of jubilant supporters, marking his homecoming as a historic and triumphant event, reports UNB.