Rahman Returns to Edge of Power in Bangladeshi Election

Tarique Rahman is poised for a historic return as Bangladesh’s next prime minister after nearly two decades of exile. Just under two months ago, the 60-year-old returned from London, where he sought medical treatment following his release from military detention in 2008. His decision to depart was driven by concerns about corruption during a period when Rahman’s mother, Khaleda Zia, and her party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), were in power.

Rahman’s return coincided with a tumultuous period for Bangladeshi politics. In August 2024, he witnessed his long-time rival Sheikh Hasina of the Awami League being ousted from power by a youth-driven uprising. The electoral victory brought an end to decades of Zia and Hasina’s dominance over Bangladesh’s political landscape.

Rahman’s parents were central figures in Bangladeshi politics. His father, Ziaur Rahman, served as President from 1975 until his assassination in 1981. Khaleda Zia followed her husband as the first female leader of a newly independent nation, leading the BNP to power and serving two terms as Prime Minister.

Since arriving back home, Rahman has positioned himself as an advocate for change. He promises to reevaluate Bangladesh’s international partnerships, focusing on attracting investment without becoming too reliant on any one country—specifically contrasting his position with that of Sheikh Hasina, who had aligned closely with India during her regime.

Additionally, Rahman champions measures such as expanding financial aid to impoverished families and encouraging the growth of new industries like toys and leather goods. He also supports a two-term, 10-year limit for prime ministers to prevent any single leader from consolidating too much power.

Rahman’s return was marked by a warm welcome upon his arrival in Dhaka last Christmas. His mother and father were long-standing political foes, creating an environment where Rahman could emerge as a fresh face amidst the country’s contentious past. He has since adopted a more subdued public image, avoiding inflammatory rhetoric and emphasizing unity over revenge.

One of the most notable changes since Rahman’s return is his association with Jebu, a 7-year-old Siberian cat that gained widespread social media popularity. Zaima, one of Rahman’s daughters, credits her father for adopting the pet as part of their efforts to rebuild public trust and foster a sense of normalcy amidst the nation’s political turmoil.

Despite being born into politics, Rahman has dedicated himself to restoring democratic values within Bangladesh. He openly acknowledges the importance of democracy in rebuilding his country and hopes that by practicing it, he can ensure accountability and prosperity for future generations.