BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will return home very soon to lead what the party calls the final phase of the struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh, said BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Tuesday.
“Zubaida Rahman arrived today… the day is not far off when our acting chairman will lead the movement for the restoration of democracy from here, rather than from Britain,” Zahid told reporters in front of Firoza, the residence of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.
Zahid, who is also Khaleda Zia’s personal physician and accompanied her on the same air ambulance, said the time is approaching when the right atmosphere will allow Tarique Rahman to return home.
“In a few days, perhaps the proper environment will be created for Tarique to return and he will surely come back,” he said.
Zahid said Zubaida Rahman, who accompanied Khaleda on her return from London, is expected to stay in the country for a few days.
Zahid said that, with her husband and daughter still in London, it is natural for her to travel back there briefly.
“She might leave for London after a few days. But she will soon return permanently with Tarique Rahman, who will then lead the final stage of the movement to restore democracy in the country,” Zahid added.
He also said Khaleda Zia has returned home in stable health and mental condition. “She is a little physically tired from the journey, but mentally she is very stable.”
Zubaida Rahman visits ailing mother at Square Hospital
On behalf of the BNP, Zahid expressed gratitude to the Emir of Qatar and the Qatari government for willingly providing the royal special air ambulance, which carried Khaleda to and from London.
He said the air ambulance, equipped with all royal medical facilities, was provided free of charge.
Replying to a question, Zahid said Khaleda Zia will lead the nation in its time of need. “The leadership of our leader Tarique Rahman will be further consolidated, and the people of Bangladesh will get back democracy and their rights. Justice will be served for all acts of injustice and wrongdoing on the soil of Bengal."
Professor Zahid has urged the people of the country to pray for the continued recovery and well-being of the BNP Chairperson.
He also expressed gratitude, on behalf of Khaleda and the BNP, to the Bangladesh Army, BGB, police, RAB, other law enforcement agencies, and media personnel for the roles they played in safely escorting her from the airport to her residence in Gulshan.
Zahid said she also conveyed her appreciation to people from all walks of life, including party leaders and activists, for the overwhelming welcome she received.