Tarique Rahman’s gratitude to people for welcoming him on his return

Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman, BNP

GreenWatch Desk

Acting chairman of the BNP, Tarique Rahman has expressed his gratitude to the people of all walks of life for the warmth of their welcome extended, respect and love he and his family felt on their homecoming on 25 December after 17 long years.

In a Facebook post made on Saturday night the BNP leader also thanked thank the media for covering this historic moment with professionalism and care, and all those who serve our nation, including those who ensured safety and calm during my return, saying “Your service matters”.  

Tarique Rahman also acknowledged and thanked leaders of other political parties and movements who welcomed my homecoming.

About the speech he made, the acting chairman of the BNP said, When I spoke last Thursday, I spoke of a plan, not just a dream, for Bangladesh’s future: a country where peace and dignity thrive, where every community feels secure and valued, and where every child can grow with hope.

This is a plan for all Bangladeshis. A united, inclusive Bangladesh. A Bangladesh that moves forward together.

Text of the Facebook post in English:

Dear friends, sisters, and brothers across Bangladesh,

Last Thursday was a day I will carry in my heart forever, the day I returned to the soil of my homeland after 17 long years. The warmth of your welcome, the sea of faces along the roads of Dhaka, and the prayers of millions are moments, I will never forget.

My deepest thanks to all. Words cannot fully express the respect and love my family and I feel for this homecoming. To our supporters who stood by us through every trial and never lost hope, your courage continues to give me strength.

To members of civil society, youth, professionals, farmers, workers, and citizens from all walks of life, thank you for reminding us that the true power of Bangladesh always lies in its people, when united.

I sincerely thank the media for covering this historic moment with professionalism and care, and all those who serve our nation, including those who ensured safety and calm during my return. Your service matters.

I also wish to acknowledge and thank leaders of other political parties and movements who welcomed my homecoming. I appreciate the thoughtful reflections that emphasised democracy, multiparty coexistence, and the enduring will of the people. I am grateful for the warm welcomes and for the hope expressed for a democratic, peaceful political culture, as well as the call to move beyond politics driven by vengeance. I take these words with humility and respect.

When I spoke last Thursday, I spoke of a plan, not just a dream, for Bangladesh’s future: a country where peace and dignity thrive, where every community feels secure and valued, and where every child can grow with hope.

This is a plan for all Bangladeshis. A united, inclusive Bangladesh. A Bangladesh that moves forward together.

Thank you for welcoming me home. May Allah bless Bangladesh and all of you, now and always.