BNP Moves Toward Tarique Rahman as Party Chairman

Tarique Rahman delivers his speech.

Following the death of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, the top leadership position of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has fallen vacant, placing acting chairman Tarique Rahman at the centre of the party’s next transition. Party sources say Tarique Rahman is set to assume the role of chairman, though no formal decision has yet been announced regarding the timing or procedure of his official installation.

With the national election approaching, BNP leaders acknowledge that the issue cannot be delayed for long. According to senior party officials, the most immediate and sensitive concern is determining whose photograph may lawfully appear on campaign materials such as banners, festoons, billboards, leaflets and digital posters.

The matter requires clarification from the Election Commission, as election rules allow only the photograph of a party’s current chief to be used in campaign materials. BNP leaders say discussions with the commission will be initiated soon to resolve the issue.

The 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and referendum are scheduled for February 12. Even before the announcement of the election schedule, many BNP candidates had already prepared campaign materials featuring images of Khaleda Zia. Her death has now fundamentally altered the campaign landscape.

Under the electoral code of conduct, candidates nominated by registered political parties may display only the portrait photograph of the party chief, subject to specific conditions. The image must not depict the individual in a leadership role at events or in prayer postures.

According to the BNP constitution, Tarique Rahman automatically assumed the responsibilities of party chairman following Khaleda Zia’s death. However, party leaders say the title is not being used publicly at this stage due to political sensitivity, although all major decisions and strategies are currently being formulated under his leadership.

A BNP standing committee member said the party would seek a clear explanation from the Election Commission on campaign guidelines before making any public move regarding leadership imagery.

Khaleda Zia passed away on December 30 after a prolonged illness, triggering nationwide mourning. The country observed three days of state mourning, followed by a seven-day party mourning programme that will conclude on January 5. Prayer programmes continue to be held across the country in her memory.

Khaleda Zia to remain central to campaign

Alongside mourning, the BNP is preparing to intensify its election campaign once the mourning period ends. Party leaders say Khaleda Zia will remain the symbolic centre of the campaign, with her ideals, struggle and leadership forming the emotional backbone of BNP’s election narrative.

The party plans to convert the public outpouring of grief and respect following her funeral into electoral momentum. Emphasis is being placed on activating grassroots leaders, strengthening organisational unity, and expanding direct voter engagement through public meetings and local outreach.

A 41-member central election steering committee has already been formed to oversee campaign strategy, candidate coordination and organisational discipline.

Rebel candidates pose major challenge

Party leaders identify rebel candidates as the biggest challenge ahead of the election. In more than 100 constituencies, multiple BNP leaders have submitted nomination papers in defiance of party decisions, particularly in seats allocated to allied parties.

Several leaders have already been expelled for violating party discipline, while others have been given deadlines to withdraw their nominations. BNP sources say disciplinary action will continue if necessary, stressing that electoral unity is crucial at this stage.

Careful steps ahead

BNP leaders say the party is now moving cautiously through each phase of the election process, including nomination scrutiny, withdrawals, symbol allocation and manifesto finalisation. Maintaining public confidence and avoiding internal confusion remain top priorities.

Tarique Rahman is expected to take a more visible role in the campaign during its final phase. Party sources also indicate that meetings with families of those killed in recent political unrest and a possible nationwide tour are under consideration, depending on the political environment.

BNP leaders acknowledge that public expectations are high and say every move will be taken with strategic care as the party enters a decisive phase of its political journey.