In a significant political development, Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has formally enrolled himself as a voter in Bangladesh. This move comes just two days after his return from a self-imposed exile in London that lasted for over 17 years.
Biometric Registration Under Tight Security
The 60-year-old political leader visited the Election Commission office in Dhaka on Saturday under a blanket of tight security. The process involved the collection of his biometric data, including fingerprints and iris scans, which are mandatory for obtaining a National Identity (NID) card and voter enrollment in Bangladesh. This step is crucial for any citizen wishing to participate in the electoral process, either as a voter or a candidate.
Clearing the Path for Electoral Debut
The voter registration formally sets the stage for Tarique Rahman's much-anticipated electoral debut. He is slated to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections on February 12. He will be vying for a seat from his ancestral constituency, Bogura Sadar. This marks his first direct entry into a parliamentary race, a significant moment for the BNP, which is one of Bangladesh's major political parties.
Political Implications of the Return
Tarique Rahman's return and subsequent voter registration are pivotal events in Bangladesh's current political landscape. As the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and the acting chairman of the main opposition BNP, his active physical presence in the country is expected to galvanize the party's base. His participation in the February polls adds a new dynamic to the electoral contest, especially in the Bogura region. The move completes a key legal formality, allowing him to transition from a party leader in exile to an official candidate on the ground, potentially reshaping campaign strategies for all parties involved.
