DESTINY'S CHILD

The change in Bangladesh has given Tarique Rahman an opportunity

- BY NAMRATA BIJI AHUJA

The transition in Bangladesh politics could be a pivotal moment for Tarique Rahman, acting chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Part. Called Tarique Zia by supporters, he is the the son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia. A freedom fighter and army general, Zia founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). After he was killed in 1981 by rebellious army officers, Khaleda Zia took over the leadership. Both Khaleda and Sheikh Hasina played important roles in leading the 1990 uprising against President Hussain Muhammad Ershad.

Tarique, 57, now finds himself following in his mothers' footsteps as Bangladesh is trying to restart the democratic process. The BNP occupies the largest political space in the country after the ouster of the Awami League government. And there is much excitement in Dhaka over the anticipated return of Tarique, who has been living in London.

For Tarique, who has been addressing party cadres virtually, life will come full circle when he lands in Dhaka. Khaleda Zia is expected to make way for her son to be the face of the party in the upcoming elections.