What's Happening?
Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has registered as a voter in Bangladesh after spending over 17 years in self-exile in London. On December 27, 2025, Rahman completed
the necessary formalities at the Election Commission (EC) office in Dhaka, where he provided biometric data including fingerprints and iris scans. This move comes just days after his return to Bangladesh. Rahman, who is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, had been living abroad since 2008 following his release from prison. His return and voter registration have been met with tight security measures, including the deployment of the Bangladesh Army and police around the EC office. Rahman is expected to receive his National Identity (NID) card within 24 hours. His daughter, Zaima, also completed her registration. The voter registration process in Bangladesh, which includes photographs and biometric data, was introduced in 2008. Rahman was not included in the initial voter list due to his absence from the country.
Why It's Important?
The registration of Tarique Rahman as a voter is significant as it marks his re-entry into Bangladesh's political landscape ahead of the national elections scheduled for February 12. Rahman is set to contest the election from his ancestral constituency, Bogura Sadar. His registration has sparked controversy, particularly from the Awami League, which questions the legality of his inclusion in the voter list after the election schedule was announced. The party argues that registering as a new voter during this period is legally prohibited, raising concerns about potential legal violations. This development could influence the political dynamics in Bangladesh, as Rahman's participation in the elections may impact the BNP's electoral strategy and voter base. The situation also highlights ongoing tensions between the BNP and the ruling Awami League, which could affect the overall political climate in the country.
What's Next?
As the elections approach, the legal and political implications of Rahman's voter registration are likely to be scrutinized further. The Awami League's challenge to the legality of his registration could lead to legal proceedings or further political disputes. Additionally, Rahman's participation in the elections may galvanize BNP supporters and influence voter turnout. The outcome of the elections could have significant implications for Bangladesh's political future, particularly in terms of the balance of power between the BNP and the Awami League. Observers will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and what impact they may have on the election results.
Beyond the Headlines
Rahman's return and voter registration also raise questions about the broader legal and ethical standards governing electoral processes in Bangladesh. The controversy surrounding his registration highlights potential gaps in the legal framework that could be exploited by political actors. This situation underscores the need for transparent and consistent application of electoral laws to ensure fair and democratic elections. Additionally, Rahman's re-entry into politics after a long absence may signal a shift in the BNP's strategy, potentially leading to changes in the party's leadership dynamics and policy priorities.
