Political landscape shifts as Tarique Rahman ends 17-year exile.

Marking a historic turning point in Bangladesh’s political history, Tarique Rahman, the Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has officially entered the race for the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election. On Monday, senior party leaders submitted his nomination papers for the Dhaka-17 constituency, signaling his formal return to the electoral arena after nearly two decades.

The submission took place at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s office in Segunbagicha. On behalf of the BNP leader, the papers were filed by Abdus Salam, adviser to the BNP chairperson, and Farhad Halim Donar, chief of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh. This move follows Rahman’s recent registration as a voter in the same constituency, a decision sparked by the enthusiastic urging of senior party members.

Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on December 25 after spending 17 long years in self-exile in London. His arrival, alongside his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman, follows the dramatic political shifts in Bangladesh last year. Having led the party via video link since 2018, his physical presence in the country is expected to be a massive catalyst for the BNP’s campaign.

Reflecting on his return, Rahman shared his vision for a safe and inclusive nation, expressing profound gratitude for the massive crowds that greeted him at the airport. His homecoming was made possible after he was acquitted in several cases following the change of power on August 5 last year.

While the BNP had previously mentioned he might contest from Bogura-6, his nomination for the high-profile Dhaka-17 constituency highlights the party's strategic focus for the February 2026 polls. As Bangladesh prepares for this crucial election, all eyes are now on how the veteran leader will influence the country’s democratic future.