Bangladesh’s opposition leader Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on December 25, 2025, after 17 years in exile, rallying substantial support as he promised to build a secure and inclusive nation ahead of the February elections. His return, facilitated by the recent political upheaval and the overturning of his criminal convictions, positions him as a frontrunner for prime minister, potentially revitalizing the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The country, currently under an interim government, faces challenges including threats of voter boycotts and concerns over violence during the upcoming polls. Rahman’s emergence amidst a shifting political landscape raises crucial questions regarding democratic stability and governance in Bangladesh, with implications for regional dynamics in South Asia.