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Tarique Rahman Set to End 17-Year Exile in Dhaka on Thursday Ahead of Bangladesh Elections

Authorities tighten Dhaka security ahead of his arrival under an election schedule set for February 12.

Overview

  • Interim leader Muhammad Yunus confirmed Rahman will land in Dhaka on December 25, with national polls scheduled for February 12, 2026.
  • BNP leaders plan a large reception they say could draw millions along the airport route, positioning Rahman to lead the party’s campaign.
  • Security agencies have restricted visitor access at the airport and set up a double-layer cordon across Dhaka, with police citing maximum vigilance.
  • Rahman’s legal path was cleared after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, including acquittal of a life sentence in absentia linked to the 2004 grenade attack case.
  • Tensions remain high with recent attacks on media houses and, on Wednesday night, a crude bomb blast in Dhaka that killed one person.