DHAKA, Dec 26, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman paid rich tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War at the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar tonight.

Earlier in the evening, he paid homage at the grave of his father, BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. During the visit, Tarique Rahman was seen shedding tears as he stood at his father's grave for the first time in nearly 19 years.

His journey to the National Martyrs' Memorial was delayed due to thousands of people lining both sides of the road to greet him. He waved to the crowds from his vehicle, acknowledging their support.

As he could not reach the memorial altar before sunset in line with official rules, senior BNP leaders paid tribute to the Liberation War martyrs on his behalf at 5:06 pm. Later, Tarique Rahman arrived at the memorial around 10:00 pm and personally laid a wreath along with senior party leaders. He also signed the visitors' book while remaining in his vehicle at 10:37 pm.

BNP Standing Committee Members Goyeshwar Chandra Roy and Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, BNP Chairperson's Advisory Council Member Amanullah Aman, Lutfozzaman Babar, Dhaka District BNP President Khandaker Abu Ashfaq and General Secretary Advocate Nipun Roy Chowdhury were present during the tribute. 

BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan was also present.

Quoting Tarique Rahman, Shayrul Kabir Khan said the BNP Acting Chairman thanked all those present, including law enforcement personnel, for their patience, saying he was delayed due to the massive crowds along the roads.

Tarique Rahman returned to the country on Thursday after nearly 17 years in exile in London. On his return, he received a massive public reception, with millions of people gathering along the 300 Feet Road in the capital to welcome him. Following the reception, he visited Evercare Hospital to see his ailing mother, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.