Photo : BNP Media Cell

DHAKA, Dec 25, 2025 (BSS)- The reception venue for BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is packed to capacity several hours before the scheduled ceremony marking his return home after nearly 18 years of exile in London.

Earlier, in a press conference yesterday, BNP Standing Committee Member and Convener of the Tarique Rahman reception committee Salahuddin Ahmed said that a very brief public reception has also been arranged on the service lane of the July 36 Expressway (300-Foot Road), where the BNP Acting Chairman will express his gratitude to the people while en route to Evercare Hospital to visit his ailing mother and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

On-the-ground observations revealed that party leaders and activists were arriving at the venue from different parts of the country by buses, trucks and private vehicles.

During their arrival, the activists were seen chanting various slogans including 'Tarique Rahman Asche, Ma-Mati Dakche', 'Ajker Ei Din e, Shaheed Zia Mone Pore', 'Tomar Amar Marka, Dhaner Shis Marka', 'Tarique Rahmaner Agomon, Suveceshha Sagotom', 'Desh Neta Asche, Bangladesh Kapche' etc.

A festive atmosphere prevailed at the venue as enthusiasm and excitement were evident among the activists. Some celebrated Tarique Rahman's return by waving the national flag, others carried the party symbol Dhaner Shis (Sheaf of Paddy), while some wore colourful attire and beat drums.

Ahad Uddin (46), who arrived from Bogura, told BSS, "I never imagined that Tarique Rahman would return to the country like this. For those of us involved in BNP politics, today is truly a joyful day. Insha'Allah, the Sheaf of Paddy will win in the next national parliamentary election, and Bangladesh will progress far under Tarique Rahman's leadership."

Member Secretary of Shahbagh Thana Chatro Dal Saddam Hossain Shakil said, "This day has been achieved through various known and unknown struggles. We, the workers of the Nationalist ideology, are grateful to the people of the country for the affection and love they have shown towards Tarique Rahman."