Just one more day. BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is returning home after a long decade and a half. Last-minute preparations are underway in the capital Dhaka for his return home, with tight security and a large-scale political rally at the center.
Party sources said that after landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Thursday, Tarique Rahman will go directly to a public reception organized in the 300 feet area of the capital after completing the formalities. After that, he will meet his mother and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital, and return to his Gulshan residence.
Tight security, bulletproof cars ready
A comprehensive security plan has been taken from the airport to the residence surrounding Tarique Rahman’s movement. As part of this, two bulletproof vehicles have already arrived in Dhaka. This includes a hard jeep of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado LC-250 model with special protection imported from abroad, which has received BRTA registration and fitness clearance. In addition, a bulletproof bus has also been brought to Dhaka via Chittagong Port.
To strengthen security, the scope of the Chairperson Security Force (CSF) has been expanded and a separate coordination team has been formed with trusted party leaders.
A huge reception stage measuring 300 feet
A large stage is being constructed on a 300-foot-wide highway to commemorate Tarique Rahman’s comeback. Work on the 48-foot-by-36-foot stage began on Sunday and is expected to be completed by Wednesday. Additional security posts have been set up throughout the area.
After visiting the reception venue, BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas said, “Tarique Rahman’s arrival is the center of discussion across the country. We are ready to ensure maximum discipline and security.”
Aminul Haque, convener of Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP, said that this is going to be one of the biggest receptions in the party’s history.
Administrative permission and special trains
BNP has received written permission from the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner to organize the reception. The party’s media cell said the permission has already been sent to senior leaders.
To facilitate the travel of leaders and activists in Dhaka, special trains will be launched on 10 routes and additional coaches will be added to regular trains. However, instructions have been given to comply with the Election Code of Conduct-2025 during these journeys.
Party leaders say they expect millions of people to gather to welcome Tarique Rahman. Overall, the capital is now on high political and security alert surrounding his return.