BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed. File Photo

DHAKA, Dec 18, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today said security and reception preparations are in the final stages for the return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman after nearly 18 years.

Briefing journalists about the reception preparation of the party at the BNP Chairperson office in Gulshan, he said, “The overall preparation and security management for the beloved leader’s return are almost complete. We are currently inspecting the routes from the airport to Evercare Hospital, to his residence, and other possible event venues, and working to coordinate these matters with the relevant authorities. The details will be announced later."

Salahuddin said that a team led by member secretary of the reception committee Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, convener of the BNP Media Cell Professor Dr. Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel and other concerned leaders along with the head of the security team are inspecting all aspects, starting from the airport's landing area to the boarding of the car and the travel routes. 

He also noted that coordination on security issues has been ongoing for several days with the concerned government circles and departmental heads, and cooperation is being received from the government.

Mentioning the direction about the reception programmes to the party activists, Salahuddin said, “Instructions have been given to BNP and its associate organization leaders and activists from the district, upazila, and union levels across the country to come to Dhaka on the night of the December 24 or the morning of December 25 to welcome the leader. There is widespread enthusiasm and excitement across the country to have a glimpse of the leader, who is seen as the safeguard of the country's democracy, following his nearly 18 years in exile."

“Preparations are underway for a memorable event with the goal that the return of this leader, who has led the democratic struggle against fascism for 16–17 years, will surpass all precedents of the past 55 years and that such an historical event will not happen again in the next 55 years," added Salahuddin. 

In response to a question, he stated that Tarique Rahman will arrive on a regular commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and the landing time is 11:55am.  

Regarding the reception arrangements, Salahuddin Ahmed said that potential venues are being inspected, taking into consideration the huge public presence and the need to avoid public suffering. The final venue, where maximum participation can be ensured will be announced later.

He said, "Various responsibilities have been assigned to the members of the reception committee, and communication has been strengthened nationwide to ensure the upcoming gathering undoubtedly turns into a historic public congregation."

He sought cooperation from the media and all others to make the event a success and mentioned that detailed information will be provided to the electronic, print, online and foreign media in due course.