‘I have a plan’: What Tarique Rahman promised at Dhaka rally and can he turn the tide against Yunus

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gather to join a grand rally to welcome BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 25, 2025. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh after 17 years, addressing a major rally in Dhaka amid political unrest and minority attacks. He called for unity, democracy, and safety for all, as the country faces rising violence and instability.

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Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on Wednesday after nearly 17 years in exile and addressed a massive rally in Dhaka, marking his most significant political appearance in decades. His return comes at a time when the country is facing political unrest, rising violence, and growing concerns over minority safety under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

Speaking before thousands of supporters at 300 Feet area in Dhaka, Rahman positioned himself as a leader ready to reclaim what he called the people’s lost democratic rights. Drawing from the famous words of Martin Luther King Jr, he said, “I have a plan,” and stressed that the future of Bangladesh depends on public unity and participation.

Opening his speech with “Beloved Bangladesh,” Rahman thanked party leaders and supporters who stood by the BNP during his long absence. He said the people now want freedom of expression, the right to speak without fear, and a return to democratic governance.

Rahman referred to Bangladesh’s past struggles, including the 1971 Liberation War and later mass movements, and linked them to the protests of 2024 that challenged the former Sheikh Hasina government. He said the sacrifices made in both 1971 and 2024 would only be honoured if Bangladesh is rebuilt as a democratic and inclusive nation.

He repeatedly spoke of unity and inclusion, saying Bangladesh belongs to people of all religions and backgrounds. He said Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians must feel equally safe and respected. Rahman described his vision of a country where every citizen can step out of their home safely and return without fear.

At a time when violence has spread across parts of Dhaka and other areas, Rahman focused heavily on peace and stability. He said Bangladesh needs discipline, democratic norms, and a strong economy alongside political reform.

Rahman also paid tribute to Osman Hadi, an anti India activist who was shot by unidentified attackers and later died. He said Hadi dreamed of a democratic Bangladesh and wanted people to regain both political and economic rights. Hadi’s death has triggered violent protests, with BNP supporters accusing India of involvement and demanding justice.

These protests have exposed the growing failure of the Yunus-led interim government to maintain law and order. In recent days, members of the Hindu minority have been attacked, with incidents of arson, vandalism, and mob violence reported from multiple locations. In one shocking case, Dipu Chandra Das, a local Hindu man, was lynched and set on fire while unconscious over allegations of blasphemy.

The interim government has faced criticism for its weak response, as violence spirals and minority communities feel increasingly unsafe. India has also raised concerns, urging Bangladesh to protect minorities, further straining already tense bilateral ties.

Later in the day, Rahman met Muhammad Yunus to discuss the political situation, but the meeting did little to ease public concerns over the interim government’s ability to control the unfolding crisis.

Rahman called on the youth to take responsibility for shaping Bangladesh’s future and said the younger generation would play a decisive role in restoring stability. He ended his speech by asking citizens to work together to implement his vision.

He also requested prayers for his mother, former prime minister Khaleda Zia, who remains hospitalised in Dhaka.

With national elections scheduled for February 2026, Rahman’s return has reshaped Bangladesh’s political landscape. However, amid violence, minority attacks, and administrative drift under the interim setup, his biggest challenge will be convincing voters that he can restore trust, order, and democratic stability in a country that remains deeply unsettled.