Bangladesh is set to witness a significant political development as Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman returns to Dhaka after nearly two decades abroad. His arrival marks the end of a 17-year absence and comes at a time of heightened political tension and uncertainty in the country.

Rahman, the elder son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has been living in London since 2008 after leaving Bangladesh for medical treatment following his release from detention. Over the years, he continued to steer BNP affairs from overseas and was formally named acting chairman of the party while in exile.

His homecoming has triggered a massive mobilisation by BNP, with party workers and supporters gathering in large numbers to welcome him. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and key routes in Dhaka have been placed under tight security, following directives from the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to prevent any untoward incidents.

Rahman is expected to arrive in Dhaka late in the morning, accompanied by his wife Zubaida Rahman and their daughter Zaima. After attending a reception programme organised by the party, he is likely to visit his mother, Khaleda Zia, who is currently hospitalised and reported to be in fragile health.