Tarique Rehman Returns to Bangladesh: BNP Leader's Schedule for Historic Homecoming

After nearly 17 years in exile, Tarique Rehman, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) acting chairman and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is set to return to Bangladesh. The 3-day schedule for Rehman's homecoming has been revealed, with high hopes for his party's success in the upcoming elections. Rehman, who has been living in London since 2008 following multiple convictions, including money laundering and a plot to assassinate Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is expected to play a crucial role in the BNP's leadership. Following Hasina's ouster last year, Rehman has been acquitted of all charges, paving the way for his return. On Thursday, December 25, Rehman will arrive at Dhaka airport, where he will be received by BNP standing committee members. He will then address the nation and meet with party leaders and activists. Rehman will visit his ailing mother, Khaleda Zia, at Evercare Hospital and later return to his residence in Gulshan-2. On Friday, December 26, Rehman will pay tribute to his father's grave at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar after Juma prayers and visit the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar. He will also complete formalities related to his Bangladeshi national identity card on Saturday, December 27. Rehman's itinerary includes visiting the grave of student leader Osman Hadi, who was recently shot dead, and the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation to see those injured in the protests last year. The BNP's return to power seems likely, given that Hasina's Awami League has been barred from contesting the upcoming elections. With Khaleda Zia ailing, Rehman might be the party's go-to choice for leading the government if the BNP wins the polls.