After an absence of 17 long years, Tarique Rahman has finally set foot on Bangladeshi soil. The aircraft carrying him touched down at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport today, Thursday, 25 December, at 11:40 am local time. Accompanying him were his wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and his daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman.
Earlier in the morning, the flight had landed at Sylhet Osmani International Airport at 9:55 am before continuing its journey to the capital. The plane had departed from London Heathrow Airport at 6:15 pm local time on Wednesday, embarking on the long-awaited journey to Bangladesh.
Shortly after entering Bangladeshi airspace, Tarique Rahman took to his verified Facebook page at 9:34 am to post an emotional message, stating, “After 6,314 days, over Bangladeshi skies once again!” The post resonated with supporters nationwide, signalling a historic moment in the country’s political landscape.
To welcome him, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) organised a grand reception at the 36 July Expressway area (formerly known as the 300 Feet area) in Dhaka. By Thursday morning, the area had transformed into a sea of humanity, with people travelling from across the country to witness the historic arrival.
Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the BNP’s National Standing Committee, remarked, “The nation has been waiting eagerly to see him, to hear him speak. Today, a momentous event unfolds in Bangladesh’s 55-year history, one that both the country and the world will witness. We hope to celebrate this historic moment as a defining chapter in our history.”
Following his arrival at Shahjalal International Airport, Tarique Rahman is scheduled to proceed directly to the 36 July Expressway to address the public briefly, expressing gratitude and appreciation to the citizens. Afterwards, he will visit the hospital to be by the side of BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia before returning to his residence in Gulshan.
Key Travel Details
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Departure | 24 Dec, 6:15 pm (London) | Heathrow Airport | Flight to Bangladesh |
| Stopover | 25 Dec, 9:55 am | Sylhet Osmani Airport | Interim landing |
| Arrival | 25 Dec, 11:40 am | Hazrat Shahjalal Int’l Airport | Dhaka reception |
| Public Address | 25 Dec, Morning | 36 July Expressway, Dhaka | Short speech to supporters |
The arrival of Tarique Rahman marks a historic milestone in Bangladeshi politics, drawing attention both domestically and internationally, as citizens eagerly witness the return of one of the country’s prominent political figures after nearly two decades abroad.