Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has returned to Dhaka after 17 years in exile. His homecoming is seen as a significant development ahead of the February general elections, with Rahman positioned as a leading contender for prime minister. In his first address, Rahman called for national unity, peace, and stability, emphasizing an inclusive Bangladesh for all faiths and ethnicities, and stated he has a plan for the country's development. His return occurs amidst political unrest and concerns over minority safety.