Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), turned 61 on Thursday. Born on 20 November 1965, his birthday has already prompted messages of greetings and well-wishes from within and outside the party.
However, considering the recent post–mass uprising situation and the prevailing political sensitivity, the day is again being observed in a very restrained manner this year. The party has reiterated a central directive that no grand celebrations will be allowed.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi reminded everyone of this directive. The statement urged party leaders and activists to refrain from cake-cutting, putting up posters or banners, holding discussions, or organising any festive events. Instead, prayers, humanitarian assistance, and quiet well-wishes have been encouraged as the primary ways to mark the day.
Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of BNP founder and martyred President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, began his political career as a member of the Bogura district committee. From joining Gabtoli Thana BNP at the age of just 22 to playing a prominent role in nationwide campaigning during the 2001 national elections, these steps quickly brought him into the spotlight of central politics. He was elected Senior Vice-Chairman at the party’s 2016 council. In 2018, following Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment, he assumed the role of acting chairman.
Since leaving for London in 2008 amid the political situation created by the 1/11 government, he has been residing there with his family. However, with the 13th National Parliament Election approaching, the possibility of Tarique Rahman returning to the country has stirred renewed excitement in the political arena.
Senior BNP leaders have said he will return home very soon and take part directly in the election campaign. The party has already received permission to import a bulletproof vehicle for his security and public outreach programmes.
Although official activities within the party remain limited on Tarique Rahman’s birthday, the enthusiasm, well-wishes, and heightened expectations among supporters give the day a special significance.