Tarique Rahman (Tareq Zia)
Tarique Rahman, often referred to by supporters as Tareq Zia, was born into a powerful political family. His father, Ziaur Rahman, was a military leader turned president, and his mother, Khaleda Zia, became Bangladesh’s first female prime minister. Tarique grew up in Dhaka, went through the local schooling system, and later studied at the University of Dhaka.
He entered politics early, helping strengthen BNP’s ground structure. Over time, he rose within party ranks, eventually becoming Senior Vice Chairman of the BNP.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tarique Rahman (also known as Tareq Zia) |
| Date of Birth | November 20, 1965 |
| Parentage | Son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia |
| Political Party | Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) |
| Position | Acting Chairman of BNP since February 2018 |
| Residence / Status | Lives in exile (London) |
| Education | University of Dhaka; earlier schooling in Dhaka |
| Controversies / Legal Cases | Faced multiple corruption, money laundering, and grenade attack cases; acquitted in several recently |
| Recent Developments | Courts have acquitted him in major cases; discussions of his return are ongoing |
Political Rise & Leadership Role
By 2009, Tarique was unanimously elected as Senior Vice Chairman of BNP. Over the years, he became a key figure in party decision-making. In 2018, he was appointed Acting Chairman of BNP, giving him leadership over party strategy, nominations, and policy direction while in exile.
Despite his physical absence from Bangladesh, Tarique has remained influential, guiding party activists, issuing statements, and coordinating from abroad. He is often considered the de facto head of BNP.
Legal Challenges & Acquittals
Tarique’s political journey has been marked by controversy. Under various administrations, especially those led by the Awami League, multiple legal cases were filed against him, including corruption, money laundering, illegal wealth accumulation, and involvement in the 2004 grenade attack. BNP and his supporters have consistently described these legal actions as politically motivated.
In recent years, particularly by late 2024 and into 2025, courts in Bangladesh have acquitted him in major cases—such as grenade attack charges—clearing convictions that had been imposed earlier. These acquittals have revived speculation about his political return and whether he can reenter mainstream politics.
Return Speculation & Political Climate
As Bangladesh’s political dynamics shift—in part due to changes in government and public protests—there is growing speculation about whether Tarique might return to the country. He has hinted at a possible homecoming, but has also stated that no definitive plans are in place yet. Analysts see his return as a double-edged sword—he could galvanize BNP’s base, but also face legal and security obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Why is Tarique Rahman also called Tareq Zia?
Supporters often append "Zia" (his father’s name) to show lineage and political heritage.
Q2. When did he become acting chairman of BNP?
He assumed the Acting Chairman role in February 2018.
Q3. Why is he living abroad?
He went into exile citing political persecution and to avoid legal constraints in Bangladesh.
Q4. Has he been cleared of legal charges?
Yes—several high-profile cases, including the 2004 grenade attack, were overturned by courts in recent years.
Q5. Will he return to Bangladesh?
He has expressed interest but says no immediate plans are set. His return depends on political and legal conditions.
Q6. How influential is he in BNP today?
Despite being abroad, he retains substantial control over party strategy, leadership decisions, and political direction.