BNP acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said he will return to Bangladesh 'soon and take part in the upcoming national election.

“Perhaps, for some valid reasons, it hasn’t happened yet. But I think the time has come. InshAllah, I will return soon,” he said in an interview with the BBC Bangla on Monday.

Tarique Rahman highlighted BNP’s strategies for the next election, the Awami League’s politics, the trial of its leaders and activists and the country’s election-centric political landscape during the interview.

When asked if his return could happen before the election, Tarique said, “As a political worker, I have a natural and deep connection with elections. When there is an expected election, one that the people are waiting for, how can I stay away? I will do my best to be among the people during that people-expected election, InshAllah.”

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Responding to a question about security concerns surrounding his return, Tarique said they have often heard various kinds of apprehensions from different people.

Even from government quarters, concerns were expressed in different ways through various media, he said.

Asked whether he would directly contest the next election, the BNP acting chairman said, “As I mentioned earlier, I am naturally a member of a political party, a political worker. Elections are essentially linked to political parties and political activists. Therefore, in an election where the people are engaged, I cannot remain distant. I must participate. InshaAllah, I will be present on the ground.”

Responding to another question whether he would be seen as a prime minister candidate, Tarique said he thinks this is a decision for the people of Bangladesh. “It is not my decision; it will be decided by the people of Bangladesh.”

Responding to a question whether he himself would take part in the election, Tarique replied, “Why wouldn’t I? Certainly, I will.”

About the party’s stance, he said the party will decide. “How the party will handle it is the party’s decision.”

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In response to another question whether BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia would play any role in the election and whether people could expect to see her actively involved, Tarique said, “If her physical ability allows, she will certainly play some roles.”

Asked specifically whether this could mean her direct participation in the election, he replied, “I cannot say that right now... I just mentioned that it somewhat depends on her physical or medical condition.”