After 17 years abroad, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh and addressed a massive reception at Purbachal’s ‘36 July Expressway’ on Thursday, December 25, 2025. In his 16‑minute speech, he outlined his vision for a secure and discrimination‑free Bangladesh, promising equal rights and safety for all citizens regardless of religion or background. He called for national unity and collective effort to rebuild the country on democratic and economic foundations.

Rahman recalled key moments in Bangladesh’s political history, including the 1971 Liberation War, the 1975 and 1990 movements, and recent struggles in 2024. He honored those who lost their lives for democracy and sovereignty, mentioning slain activist Osman Hadi. He urged the youth to take leadership in shaping the nation’s future and emphasized patience and peace in the face of provocation.

Concluding his address, Rahman asked for prayers for his mother, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, and appealed to all citizens to maintain peace and discipline while working together toward a just and safe Bangladesh.

The National Citizens Party (NCP), known as the July fighters’ group, has formally decided to form an electoral alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, according to party sources. Discussions on seat-sharing between the two parties are already underway, and a formal announcement of the alliance could come soon. Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General Dr. Hamidur Rahman Azad confirmed that talks with NCP are in progress and that several other parties have also reached out to Jamaat.

An NCP joint convener, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the party passed a resolution approving the alliance and assigned its president and secretary to handle communications. The move has sparked discussions among eight other parties already engaged in seat-sharing talks with Jamaat, as NCP’s inclusion may require adjustments in seat allocations.

Former student leader Abdul Kader criticized the decision on social media, calling it a betrayal of youth politics. He claimed NCP initially sought 50 seats but settled for 30, agreeing not to field candidates in the remaining 270 constituencies where it would support Jamaat candidates.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami convened a preparatory meeting of its Grand Rally Implementation Committee at the party’s central office in Moghbazar, Dhaka, ahead of a major rally scheduled for January 3. The meeting, chaired by Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar, focused on ensuring the successful organization of the event, which aims to promote social awareness amid the country’s evolving political situation.

During the session, committee members reviewed logistical and organizational aspects of the rally and formed several subcommittees to oversee specific responsibilities. Senior leaders including Maulana ATM Masum, Maulana Abdul Halim, Advocate Ehsanul Mahbub Zubair, and Dr. Shafiqul Islam Masud were among those present. The participants emphasized coordination and community engagement to maximize turnout and impact.

The upcoming rally is expected to serve as a key platform for Jamaat-e-Islami to demonstrate its organizational strength and political relevance. Party officials expressed optimism about broad participation and concluded the meeting with prayers for the event’s success.

Hasnat Abdullah, chief coordinator for the southern region of the National Citizen Party (NCP), described the return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman as a significant achievement in Bangladesh’s continuous democratic movement. He made the statement on Thursday through a verified Facebook post, emphasizing that Rahman’s homecoming after nearly fifteen years of exile should not be viewed as a personal or organizational success but as a collective democratic victory.

In his post, Abdullah argued that Rahman’s return demonstrates that a Bangladeshi citizen’s right to return home cannot be permanently suppressed by state power. He linked the event to the sacrifices of countless martyrs and the emergence of a new political reality shaped by public movements. Abdullah also expressed hope for a Bangladesh where differing political opinions are treated as rights, not crimes, and where democracy ensures freedom of expression and fair political competition.

He concluded that Rahman’s return would strengthen multiparty democracy and called for mutual respect and coexistence among political forces in the evolving national landscape.

The Indian Army has introduced a new social media policy restricting its personnel from posting, liking, or commenting on Instagram. Soldiers will now be allowed to use the platform solely for viewing and monitoring content. According to Indian media reports, the directive has been circulated across all army units and departments to enhance awareness of online trends and identify misleading or harmful content.

Officials said the move aims to prevent security breaches and protect sensitive information after several past incidents where personnel were targeted through online 'honey traps' by foreign entities. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, emphasized the importance of smartphones for communication but urged caution in digital engagement. He distinguished between reacting impulsively and responding thoughtfully, underscoring that soldiers should avoid hasty online interactions.

The new policy reflects the Army’s ongoing efforts to balance operational security with the realities of modern communication, as it seeks to maintain discipline while adapting to the digital habits of younger recruits.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh after nearly sixteen years abroad, receiving a large public reception upon arrival. Following his return, he visited his ailing mother, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka’s Bashundhara area.

According to party sources, after taking rest from his long journey from London, Rahman will begin his official programs on Friday. His schedule includes visiting the grave of his father, former President Ziaur Rahman, at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, followed by paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar. On Saturday, he is expected to go to the Election Commission in Agargaon to register as a voter and potential candidate for the upcoming elections.

Later, Rahman will visit the Dhaka University campus to pay respects at the graves of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and martyr Osman Hadi, before visiting the National Orthopedic Hospital to meet those injured in the July uprising. His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP ahead of the national polls.

A major rift has emerged within the eight-party Islamist alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami as negotiations over seat-sharing for the upcoming national election stall. The coalition, which includes Islami Andolan Bangladesh led by Charmonai Pir Syed Rezaul Karim and Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish led by Maulana Mamunul Haque, has failed to finalize a unified candidate list despite multiple liaison committee meetings. Both parties are demanding significantly higher seat allocations—around 100 for Islami Andolan and 25–30 for Khelafat Majlish—creating pressure on Jamaat, which aims to contest at least 200 constituencies.

Sources suggest that if demands remain unmet, Islami Andolan and Khelafat Majlish may withdraw to form a separate platform, possibly encouraged by external political assurances. Jamaat leaders, however, maintain optimism that consensus will be reached before the nomination withdrawal deadline. The inclusion of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), seeking 50 seats, has further complicated talks. Analysts note that the outcome of these negotiations could reshape Islamist political alignments and influence opposition strategies in the forthcoming election.

Former Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that the Zia family’s long-standing commitment to Bangladesh’s sovereignty and democracy has once again been proven. In a Facebook post on Thursday evening, he welcomed Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, expressing hope that his comeback would strengthen public confidence in democratic governance.

Tarique Rahman, son of former President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, left Bangladesh in 2008 for medical treatment following his release from an 18-month detention under the military-backed caretaker government. Since then, multiple corruption cases had kept him abroad. His return marks the end of a prolonged absence that began during a politically turbulent period.

Political observers note that Tarique’s homecoming could reshape the opposition landscape ahead of future elections. Supporters view it as a symbolic moment for the BNP’s revival, while critics remain cautious about its political and legal implications.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman visited his mother, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. He was accompanied by his wife, physician Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman. During the visit, Tarique Rahman inquired about his mother’s condition and spoke with the attending medical team.

Outside the ICU cabin, Khaleda Zia’s personal physician, Professor Dr. A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain, was seen briefing family members about her health status and ongoing treatment. Khaleda Zia, who has been suffering from multiple health complications, has been under close medical supervision for several weeks. Her condition continues to draw attention from political circles and supporters.

The visit marks a rare public appearance by Tarique Rahman, who has been living abroad for years. Party insiders say his presence underscores the family’s concern and the BNP leadership’s focus on Khaleda Zia’s health amid ongoing political developments in Bangladesh.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman paid tribute to Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi during a public reception in Purbachal on December 25, emphasizing Hadi’s vision for restoring the people’s economic rights. Rahman recalled Hadi’s recent martyrdom and linked his sacrifice to the broader struggle for a just and prosperous Bangladesh.

In his address, Rahman urged citizens of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians—to unite in building a peaceful nation. Drawing parallels between the liberation struggle of 1971 and the defense of sovereignty in 2024, he said Bangladeshis now seek to reclaim their rights to free speech and democracy. He highlighted the role of the youth in shaping the country’s future and stressed the need for a democratic system supported by a strong economic foundation.

Rahman concluded by repeating his call for peace, underscoring that national harmony and inclusive development are essential for fulfilling the sacrifices of past generations.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public speech in Dhaka after returning to Bangladesh following 17 years of exile. Speaking at a mass reception on the 300 Feet Road on December 25, he expressed gratitude to God and pledged to build a just and inclusive nation modeled on the fairness of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Rahman emphasized unity among all religious communities, calling on citizens to work together for peace and national progress.

His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP, which has faced leadership challenges during his absence. Party supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome him, viewing his comeback as a potential turning point ahead of future elections. Analysts note that Rahman’s message of justice and inclusivity aims to broaden BNP’s appeal beyond its traditional base.

Political observers expect his re-entry to reshape opposition dynamics and test the government’s response to renewed BNP activism in the coming months.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public speech in Dhaka after returning to Bangladesh following 17 years in exile. Addressing a massive crowd at a reception event on the 300 Feet Road area, Rahman urged citizens of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians—to work together to build a peaceful and inclusive nation. He expressed gratitude to the Almighty for his safe return to his homeland.

Rahman arrived at Sylhet Osmani International Airport early on December 25 from London and traveled to Dhaka amid large public gatherings along the route. His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP, which has been under pressure amid ongoing political challenges. Party leaders and supporters hailed his comeback as a potential revival of BNP’s national leadership.

Analysts suggest Rahman’s return could reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of future elections, though questions remain about his legal status and political strategy in the coming months.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public address in Bangladesh after 17 years, speaking at a grand reception event on Dhaka’s 300 Feet Road in Purbachal on December 25, 2025. Expressing gratitude to the Almighty, he said he had returned to his motherland through divine blessings. The rally marked his first direct engagement with supporters since his long exile abroad.

In his speech, Rahman compared the people’s recent political struggle to the 1971 Liberation War, asserting that citizens across all sectors—students, farmers, and workers—had united to defend the nation’s sovereignty in 2024. He emphasized the public’s desire to restore democracy and called for collective efforts to rebuild the country. Party leaders and supporters hailed his return as a symbolic revival of BNP’s leadership.

Analysts view Rahman’s comeback as a potential turning point for the opposition’s political strategy ahead of future national elections. His remarks suggest a renewed attempt to mobilize grassroots support and reposition BNP in Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape.

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to detain around 80,000 undocumented migrants in large warehouse facilities across the United States, according to a draft plan obtained by The Washington Post. The initiative, led by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), includes the establishment of at least 22 detention warehouses nationwide, marking one of the largest expansions of migrant detention infrastructure in U.S. history.

The plan outlines the conversion of industrial warehouses in key states such as Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, Arizona, Georgia, and Missouri into holding centers. Seven major facilities would each accommodate between 5,000 and 10,000 detainees, while 15 smaller centers would hold 500 to 1,500 people each. The move follows a record-high detention rate, with more than 70,000 migrants currently in custody.

Critics have raised concerns over human rights and logistical feasibility, while supporters argue it strengthens border enforcement. The proposal signals a continuation of President Trump’s hardline immigration stance during his second term, with further deportation operations expected in the coming months.

Bangladesh’s interim government has described the anticipated return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman as a potential turning point in the country’s political landscape. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters on Thursday that Rahman’s arrival would help fill an existing political vacuum and contribute positively to the national atmosphere. He made the remarks while exchanging Christmas greetings with the Christian community at Tejgaon’s Holy Rosary Church in Dhaka.

Alam emphasized that Bangladesh is currently in a phase of democratic transition, with a major election approaching. He noted that Rahman, as the leader of one of the country’s largest political parties, could play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of political dialogue. The statement has drawn attention from political observers, who see Rahman’s return as a test of both the interim administration’s inclusivity and the opposition’s readiness for electoral engagement.

Analysts suggest that Rahman’s re-entry could influence voter sentiment and party mobilization, though challenges remain regarding legal and political reconciliation before the polls.