Tarique Rahman has been appointed the new chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) following the death of his mother, Khaleda Zia. The Standing Committee unanimously approved his appointment, filling the vacancy left by Zia's passing. Rahman, who recently returned after 17 years in self-exile, is seen as a leading contender for prime minister in the upcoming February elections. He has stated that Bangladesh should not return to the political conditions preceding August 5, emphasizing dialogue and democratic accountability.