A sense of anticipation has taken hold in Bangladesh’s northern district of Thakurgaon as Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman prepares to visit the area next week, marking his first trip to the district in more than two decades.
Local BNP leaders, activists and residents say preparations are underway to receive Tarique Rahman, who is expected to arrive on Monday night, 12 January. The visit carries strong emotional significance for many in the district, as Tarique Rahman last travelled to Thakurgaon in 2003, when he attended a winter blanket distribution programme.
Although he has not been physically present in recent years, Tarique Rahman has remained politically engaged with the district through virtual participation in key party programmes from abroad, including guidance speeches and organisational meetings.
According to district BNP officials, the visit will focus on commemorative and religious events rather than political rallies, in line with the Election Commission’s code of conduct ahead of the national polls.
According to district BNP sources, Tarique Rahman is visiting Thakurgaon to pay tribute to Raihanul Hasan, Al Mamun, Sahan Parvez and Rakibul Hasan, who were killed in the July-August uprising.
Later he is expected to attend a memorial meeting and prayer gathering for former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia at the Thakurgaon Government Boys’ High School grounds. He is also expected to address party leaders and supporters before continuing his journey to the neighbouring district of Panchagarh later in the day.
District BNP General Secretary Poygam Ali said the return of Tarique Rahman after such a long absence has generated excitement not only among party members but also among ordinary residents.
“His arrival after 23 years is a moment of great joy for the district,” he said. “We have held several preparatory meetings and informed the local administration to ensure the programme is conducted smoothly and in accordance with the law.”
He added that there would be no large public gathering due to electoral regulations and that the programme would remain centred on prayers and remembrance.
Despite his physical absence over the years, Tarique Rahman has maintained close ties with the district’s party unit. Most recently, he delivered a virtual address in September 2025 as chief guest at the BNP Thakurgaon district unit’s biennial conference, offering organisational guidance to party leaders.
Local authorities say security arrangements have been strengthened ahead of the visit. Thakurgaon Superintendent of Police Belal Hossain said law enforcement agencies are on high alert to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents.
“All necessary measures have been taken to maintain law and order during the visit,” he said.
The visit comes at a politically sensitive time, as Bangladesh prepares for general elections, and reflects the BNP leadership’s effort to engage with grassroots supporters while adhering to electoral rules. For many in Thakurgaon, however, the occasion is seen less as a political event and more as a symbolic homecoming after a long absence.
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