Tarique Rahman hints at returning 'soon', rejects claim of masterminding July uprising

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said he intends to return to Bangladesh “soon,” marking his first on-camera interview with the media in two decades. In an exclusive conversation with BBC Bangla, he discussed his possible return, the party’s strategy for the upcoming national election, and broader issues in Bangladesh’s political landscape.

The first part of the interview was released on Monday morning (October 6), where the BNP leader, speaking from London, elaborated on topics including his return home, the party’s electoral strategy, Awami League politics, accountability for ruling party members, and the future of Bangladesh’s democracy.

On returning home

Asked why he has not yet returned to Bangladesh despite the fall of the Awami League government following the mass uprising last year, Tarique said,

“For some valid reasons, my return may not have happened yet. But I think the time has come. In sha’a Allah, I will return soon.”

When asked if his return might take place before the next election, he replied,

“I am a political activist, and politics and elections are inherently linked. How could I stay away when the people’s long-awaited election takes place? I will make every effort, with full intention and enthusiasm, to be among the people when that expected election is held, in sha'a Allah.”

Regarding concerns over his personal safety upon returning, Tarique Rahman said he was aware of various apprehensions expressed by different individuals, including some within the government, through the media and other platforms.

‘Mastermind of the movement – the people, not any individual’

Responding to a question about whether he saw himself as the “mastermind” behind the July uprising, Tarique Rahman firmly rejected the notion.

“No, I do not see myself as the mastermind of the July movement. The success we saw in July–August was the result of years of struggle. This movement began long before—it was built through the sacrifices of democratic political parties, whether BNP or others, and their leaders and activists who faced persecution in many forms.”

He said people from all walks of life joined the movement, including students, homemakers, farmers, workers, rickshaw and CNG drivers, shopkeepers, garment workers, and even retired military officials.

“Even journalists who were forced into exile under an autocratic regime participated in this movement,” Tarique said, adding, “We do not want to undermine anyone’s contribution. This was the people’s movement. The real masterminds of this movement are the democracy-loving people of Bangladesh — not any individual or any political party.”

On BNP’s strategy for the next election

Asked whether BNP would contest the upcoming national election alone or in alliance with other parties through seat-sharing, Tarique Rahman said the party’s decision would reflect its broader political strategy and the people’s expectations.

He stressed that BNP remains committed to restoring democracy and ensuring that the next election truly represents the will of the Bangladeshi people.