Though absent from Bangladeshi soil, Tarique Rahman – BNP’s acting chairman residing in London – has played an undeniable role in orchestrating one of the most significant political resistances in the country’s recent history. From afar, he monitored developments, issued timely strategic instructions, and provided the leadership needed to unite a long-suppressed populace against the increasingly authoritarian rule of Sheikh Hasina. His aim was clear: to dismantle a regime accused of eroding the very foundations of democracy and to ignite a mass uprising to restore the people’s voice.
The family of the martyred President Ziaur Rahman has arguably borne the brunt of state-sponsored repression. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has endured unjust imprisonment in politically motivated cases, while her elder son, Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida, and daughter Zaima remain in exile. Her younger son, Arafat Rahman Koko, tragically passed away. This political dynasty has long been targeted, their suffering emblematic of the Awami League regime’s intolerance for dissent.
For nearly 15 years, anti-fascist forces, led first by Khaleda Zia and later by Tarique Rahman, have resisted the suffocating grip of the Hasina government. Their efforts gradually evolved into a powerful mass movement, culminating in the recent surge of public anger, fuelled in part by the student-led protests against the deeply unpopular quota system in public employment. What began as student discontent ultimately became a national uprising – an outcome for which Tarique Rahman’s strategic foresight must be credited.
On 30 December 2022, the BNP launched a simultaneous anti-government campaign outlining ten core demands, including the pivotal call for elections under a non-partisan caretaker government. Then, from 12 July 2023, the party shifted to a single-point demand: the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. Over 40 political parties joined this movement, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the regime.
Under the leadership of Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman, the BNP has worked tirelessly to raise political awareness and empower citizens. Decades of activism have drawn people out of their homes and onto the streets, demanding their basic rights. In the process, thousands of party members, including top leaders, have been victims of enforced disappearances, abductions, or state-sanctioned killings. Over 50,000 have faced trumped-up charges; many have been imprisoned.
Despite living in exile, Tarique Rahman was instrumental in uniting registered and unregistered opposition parties, encouraging them to boycott the 12th parliamentary elections and continue their collective fight against the regime. He remained in constant communication with party leaders, provided logistical support, and ensured the movement’s momentum didn’t falter.
During the recent student-led protests, Tarique urged BNP leaders and supporters to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the young demonstrators – quietly, and often without party banners. His message was simple but profound: this wasn’t just a party struggle; it was a national reckoning.
According to BNP central office records, 734 members of the BNP and its affiliated wings were martyred in the July uprising – 423 from BNP itself, and 144 from Chhatra Dal. This list, carefully verified, underscores the sheer cost paid by those who dared to dream of a free and fair Bangladesh. Following Tarique’s directives, the party has extended maximum support to the families of those lost.
BNP leaders emphasise that Tarique Rahman never sought personal or party credit for the toppling of Hasina’s regime. His focus remained on ending fascism and turning a youth-led movement into a mass revolt. Long before the first slogans were shouted, he had warned: Sheikh Hasina must either resign voluntarily or face the wrath of a popular uprising.
And indeed, it was Tarique Rahman who emerged as the architect of that uprising – skilfully transforming youthful frustration into a coordinated national movement. Yet, with characteristic humility, he continues to highlight the students’ courage and leadership.
Though physically distant, his presence was felt strongly. Through social media platforms like Facebook, he issued timely statements and rallied support across the globe.
On 16 July 2024, he wrote: “I am shocked and saddened by the nationwide incidents that killed at least six students and injured thousands, victims of gunfire and machete-wielding thugs deployed by the Awami League and law enforcement. These brave students are simply demanding merit-based reform of the 56% quota system in public employment.”
He continued: “The barbaric Hasina regime, clinging to power through fraudulent elections, has again proved it will not tolerate peaceful protest – let alone opposition.”
On 17 July, his appeal was directed to all patriots: “Stand beside our children. Give them courage and support in their just demands.”
By 18 July, his warning grew sharper: “Do not fire another bullet into the chest of our students. If you go too far, the consequences will be yours to bear.”
On 19 July, in a statement condemning arrests and blackouts, he urged: “Despite brutal crackdowns, internet shutdowns, and mass arrests – including our Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi – the students have not backed down. Stand beside them, support them, and take this movement forward. The fall of Hasina is inevitable.”
By 21 July, his call became even more urgent: “Hasina’s killer forces are murdering our children in the streets. Take to the streets with all your strength – starting now.”
On 4 August 2024, he made a heartfelt plea: “Dear countrymen, respond to the students’ call. Take to the streets with whatever you have. Build resistance. And to the army – I implore you, preserve your dignity. Return to the barracks and honour the true spirit of patriotism.”
Reflecting on recent events, Tarique Rahman described the July–August uprising as one of the most harrowing, yet historic, chapters in Bangladesh’s post-independence journey – defined by resistance, brutality, and sacrifice. According to him, more than 1,500 people lost their lives during the unrest, including 422 BNP-affiliated activists. Over 30,000 were injured, many permanently.
He likened this chapter to earlier struggles: the 1971 Liberation War, the November 7 anti-hegemony movement, and the 1990 pro-democracy uprising. “Once again,” he said, “the people of Bangladesh have risen against tyranny. Once again, martyrs – named and unnamed – have paid the ultimate price for freedom.”
Tarique Rahman’s message to the nation is unambiguous: “Now is the moment to build a truly democratic Bangladesh. A nation governed not by fear or force, but by fairness, inclusion, and the will of its people. It’s time to honour the sacrifices of our martyrs by creating a just and accountable government chosen through genuine elections.”
Writer: Mohammad Al Amin
