Why BNP Chief Tarique Rahman Was Called the ‘Dark Prince’ and His Path to Becoming Bangladesh’s Next PM

DHAKA: Amid escalating political unrest in Bangladesh, a major development unfolded on Thursday as BNP leader Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, returned to Dhaka after 17 years abroad. Accompanied by his wife and daughter, Rahman landed at Dhaka Airport, emerging as the most influential political figure ahead of the February 2026 general elections, with expectations mounting that he could become the country’s next Prime Minister.

The ‘Dark Prince’ Label
Tarique Rahman, 60, son of Khaleda Zia and former President General Ziaur Rahman, earned the moniker ‘Dark Prince’ due to multiple serious allegations during his mother’s tenure in power. In 2007, he was arrested amid an anti-corruption drive under the military-backed interim government. He was granted bail in 2008 to travel to London for medical treatment and remained there for years to avoid pending legal cases in Dhaka.

In October 2018, Rahman was sentenced to life imprisonment in connection with the 2004 grenade attack on Sheikh Hasina during Khaleda Zia’s government. He also faced several other corruption and criminal charges, though the BNP consistently claimed these allegations were politically motivated.

Investigative reports, including a three-part series by the Dhaka Tribune in May 2023, documented financial irregularities and corruption during BNP’s 2001–2006 rule, linking Rahman to illegal accumulation of wealth. U.S. diplomatic cables cited in the reports alleged that he acquired millions of dollars in assets unlawfully. In 2023, Rahman received a nine-year jail sentence for amassing illegal property.

Political Turnaround and Legal Relief
Rahman’s fortunes shifted in August 2024 after violent student protests led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and her departure to India. The interim administration of Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka granted significant relief to Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman, dismissing 84 pending cases against him, including those related to the 2004 Dhaka grenade attack, money laundering, treason, and the Zia Charitable Trust.

Following this legal clearance, Rahman announced in December his return from London, emphasizing the historic nature of the upcoming elections. “This is an election that people have been waiting for. I cannot remain away; I am coming to Dhaka,” he said.

Impact on the BNP and National Politics
Tarique Rahman’s return comes just weeks before the national elections, energizing BNP activists and supporters at the grassroots level. With the Awami League barred from contesting the polls, experts predict that BNP emerges as the strongest political force. Khaleda Zia, currently seriously ill and hospitalized in Dhaka, is unable to lead the party, positioning Tarique Rahman as the de facto head.

If BNP secures victory, Rahman is widely expected to become Prime Minister, marking him as the third member of his family to hold the country’s highest office, following his father and mother. His return not only revitalizes the party but also reshapes Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of a crucial election.