After nearly 18 years in exile, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has returned to the epicenter of Bangladeshi politics. Now officially leading one of the nation’s largest political parties and viewed by many as a top contender for the premiership, Rahman recently sat down for an exclusive interview with the influential U.S.-based publication, Time Magazine.
The interview, published on Wednesday (January 28), covers his return to Bangladesh, his vision for governance, the future of the Awami League, and his stance on regional and global foreign policy.
On His Return and Legacy
Tarique Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh on December 25 last year after living in London since 2008, noted that he is still physically adjusting to the local climate. Describing his leadership style, he said, "I don't actually talk much. But if someone gives me a task, I try my best to execute it."
The BNP Chairman also touched upon the personal loss of his mother, Khaleda Zia, who passed away five days after his return. "My heart is heavy," he said.
He emphasized that his current position is due to the support of BNP followers rather than just his family lineage.
Polling and Political Inclusion
The Time report identifies Rahman as the clear frontrunner for the upcoming February 12 national elections. Recent polls suggest the BNP holds approximately 70% of voter support, significantly ahead of the nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami, at 19%.
Regarding the political future of the Awami League, Rahman stated he does not support banning political parties in principle. "If one party is banned today, what is the guarantee that my party won't be banned tomorrow?" he asked.
However, he clarified that individuals must face legal consequences for specific crimes. "Justice will be served for crimes, but the country cannot be run through political vendettas."
India, Trump, and Global Trade
On the sensitive topic of relations with India, including transit and trade, Rahman asserted,
Addressing the 20% tariff recently imposed on Bangladeshi goods by U.S. President Donald Trump, Rahman expressed intent to negotiate a remedy. He suggested exploring the purchase of Boeing aircraft and U.S. energy infrastructure to help reduce the trade deficit. "Donald Trump will look after his country's interests, and I will look after mine. But we can assist each other. I am sure Trump is a very reasonable person," he said.
Economic and Environmental Vision
Responding to past allegations of corruption—specifically in the power sector—Rahman denied all charges, labeling the cases as "politically motivated" and noting they were dismissed by the interim government.
His roadmap for Bangladesh includes:
- Rule of Law: Prioritizing safety for citizens and businesses.
- Environment: Excavating 12,000 miles of canals to save groundwater, planting 50 million trees annually, and creating 50 new "green zones" in Dhaka.
- Employment: Addressing the 13.5% unemployment rate by transforming the 2 million youths entering the workforce annually into a skilled workforce through technical education.
"If I can implement even 30% of what I have planned, the people of this country will support me," he remarked.
Rahman concluded the interview by quoting a famous line from Spider-Man: "With great power comes great responsibility. I believe this with all my heart."
