BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and Former adviser Mahfuj Alam- Collage Photo

DHAKA, Dec 25, 2025 (BSS) -Former adviser and a frontline July uprising leader Mahfuj Alam today said the return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to strengthen public trust and confidence in Bangladesh's democratic system.

"Tarique Rahman's return after 17 years of exile is expected to strengthen trust and confidence in Bangladesh's democracy," he said in a post on his verified Facebook account this afternoon. 

Mahfuj Alam said Tarique Rahman's homecoming marks a significant moment for the country's democratic journey.

"The Zia family's commitment to the cause of sovereignty and democracy has been demonstrated over decades. Let's hope he delivers on his promises and helps build a truly sovereign and democratic Polity," Mahfuj added in the post. 

Concluding his message, the former adviser welcomed the BNP leader back to the country, writing, "Welcome home."

Tarique Rahman returned to his homeland after 17 years in exile. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight carrying Tarique Rahman from London landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 11:40 am via Sylhet. 

Tarique Rahman was accorded warm reception and emotional greetings at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on arrival from London.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir earlier led the party standing committee members to greet the acting chairman and accord reception at the VVIP lounge of the airport after his return from London as Tarique Rahman embraced them with a wide smile and warm handshake.

After airport proceedings, he started journey to the 36 Expressway (300-Foot Road) venue by a bus amid tight security. Before that, he touched down the soil with dew dropped grasses barefoot and grasped a fist of soil, brought to nose and sniffed being emotional. 

Then, a motorcade escorted Tarique Rahman's bus to the venue as millions of people standing on the both sides of airport road bound to 300 feet welcomed him with chanting slogans. 

Later, Tarique Rahman attended the public event at July 36 expressway and addressed to the thousands of people. Walking along the route to Evercare Hospital, he waved to the crowd, acknowledging their unwavering support.