Khaleda Zia’s Son Tarique Rahman Files Nominations to Contest Bangladesh Polls From Two Seats

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh National Party and son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, has formally entered the race for Bangladesh's upcoming general elections by filing nomination papers from two constituencies.

According to a report by the Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune, Rahman will contest from Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6 on the BNP's electoral symbol, the Sheaf of Paddy.

His move marks a significant political return, coming days after he arrived back in Bangladesh on December 25 following 17 years in exile. Rahman also applied for voting rights in the country on December 27, completing key formalities ahead of the polls.

Dual constituency contest and nomination filing

On Sunday, Rahman signed his nomination papers to contest the national parliamentary election from the two seats. As the acting chief of the BNP, his candidature is being closely watched both within Bangladesh and abroad, given his long absence from active politics inside the country.

The decision to contest from two constituencies is seen as a strategic move by the party as it prepares for a high-stakes election cycle after years of political turbulence.

Election timeline and political backdrop

Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary election is scheduled to be held on February 12, 2026. The polls are taking place against a backdrop of widespread protests, episodes of violence, and allegations of atrocities against the Hindu minority, placing the country under sharp international scrutiny.

Rahman's return and entry into electoral politics come at a time when the political climate remains volatile and deeply polarised.

Foreign policy signals and India ties

Rahman's emergence as a key political figure is also being closely followed in India. In Tarique Rahman, India is expected to deal with a leader who emphasises national interest while acknowledging the historical relationship between the two neighbours.

He has already outlined his broader vision for the country's future and its social fabric. "Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and people of different faiths live in this country. Together, we want to build such a Bangladesh, we have dreamed of, we want to build a safe Bangladesh," Rahman said in his first speech after landing in the country.

As campaigning gathers pace, Rahman's candidacy is likely to play a central role in shaping the narrative of the 2026 general elections.