Opposition scion returns to poll-bound Bangladesh

PRIME-MINISTER-HOPEFUL ARRIVES AFTER 17-YEAR EXILE

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Aspiring prime minister and political heavyweight Tarique Rahman was welcomed back to Bangladesh yesterday by huge crowds of joyous supporters after 17 years in self-imposed exile.

Rahman, the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and heir apparent of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), shook hands with party leaders after touching down at the Dhaka airport.

Accompanied by his wife and daughter, a visibly emotional Rahman took off his shoes, stood on the grass outside the airport and scooped up the soil as a mark of reverence.

He waved to supporters before ducking into a convoy under tight security, video posted by his party showed.

Groundswell of support