TDS Desk:

After 17 years in exile abroad, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is currently on the way to a reception rally on 300 Feet Road in Purbachal, following a homecoming that saw thousands of emotional supporters and BNP activists lining the streets of Dhaka.

Tarique’s convoy, led by a red-and-green bus bearing the slogan “Bangladesh First”, could be seen passing through the 300 Feet area this afternoon (25 December) at the time of filing this report.

The BNP leader was spotted standing at the front of the bus, waving and smiling at people who had gathered from across the country to catch a glimpse of him. He is expected to join the rally and address the gathering very soon. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight carrying Tarique, his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Zaima Rahman landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) at 11:40am today after a brief stopover in Sylhet.

Photo: Collected

The 300 Feet Road area has been transformed into a massive gathering point since yesterday. A 48ft by 36ft stage has been erected on the service lane of the road, also known as the July 36 Expressway, where Tarique is scheduled to deliver a brief address.

Security remains tight, with members of the army, BGB, and police deployed along the route.

Despite the heavy security, crowds have surged, chanting slogans like “The leader is coming” and “Tarique Rahman is the soul of Bangladesh.”

Following the brief address in Purbachal, Tarique is expected to proceed directly to Evercare Hospital to visit his ailing mother, former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

He will later head to his residence in Gulshan, a house he left behind nearly two decades ago.