Background & Political Role
Tarique Rahman (born 20 November 1965 in Dhaka) is the eldest son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He currently serves as the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), a position he has held since February 2018.

After the fascist Awami League’s decisive win in the 2008 general election, Tarique Rahman went into self-exile in London, citing safety concerns and alleging political persecution.

Legal Battles & Acquittals

Over the years, Rahman faced numerous legal charges—including corruption, money laundering, and involvement in the 2004 grenade attack—leading to life sentences in absentia from various courts. The BNP has consistently maintained that these were politically motivated.

However, significant judicial reversals followed after the fall of the previous government:

December 2024: Bangladesh’s High Court acquitted Rahman and 48 others of all charges related to the 2004 grenade attack, deeming the original trial and verdict “illegal.”

January 2025: He and his mother, Khaleda Zia, were also acquitted in the high-profile Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case.

As of now, there are no pending cases against him.

Return to Politics

Tarique Rahman is actively looking to return to Bangladesh. A notable meeting between him and interim chief advisor Muhammad Yunus in London fueled speculation that he may make a political comeback and potentially vie for the prime ministerial position.

Vision & Reform Agenda

In recent public statements—and via virtual appearances—Tarique Rahman and senior BNP leadership have positioned him as the future prime minister:

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Secretary General, Today declared that “Tarique Rahman is going to be the country’s future prime minister.” This was announced during an event organized by the Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB).

Tarique himself emphasized that nearly 99% of the reforms the current government is discussing were already proposed by the BNP via their “31-point structural reform agenda” presented over two years ago.

Identity Acting Chairman of BNP, in exile in London
Legal Status Acquitted of major charges (2024–2025)
Political Ambition Potential return to run for prime minister
Reform Vision Advocates long-standing agenda via 31-point plan

Tarique Rahman remains a pivotal—and polarizing—figure in Bangladesh’s political arena, combining legal vindication with bold aspirations for national leadership.

SOURCE : WSN24