Tarique Rahman Rejects Coalition, Expresses Confidence Ahead of Bangladesh Polls
DHAKA, Feb 7 : Tarique Rahman, the leading contender for the premiership of Bangladesh, has officially declined a proposal for a "unity government" with his primary rival, the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami, following next week’s national elections.
In an exclusive interview with Reuters at his party headquarters in Dhaka, the 60-year-old Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) stated that his party is fully confident in securing a majority on its own.
A Return from Exile
Rahman returned to Bangladesh last December after nearly two decades of self-imposed exile in London.
His homecoming followed the August 2024 uprising that saw the ouster of long-term Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
This political shift marked a significant turning point for the nation, which has been governed by an interim administration since the fall of the previous regime.
The Debate Over Unity
While the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami shared power in a coalition from 2001 to 2006, Rahman is now signaling a different path.
Addressing the possibility of a shared government, Rahman questioned the role of democracy without a distinct opposition.
"If I form a government with my political opponents, then who becomes the opposition?" Rahman remarked. "I am not sure how many seats they [Jamaat] will win, but if they find themselves in the opposition, I hope they will serve as a constructive one."
Sources within the BNP suggest the party is targeting more than two-thirds of the 300 parliamentary seats.
The party is fielding candidates in 292 constituencies, leaving the remainder for smaller alliance partners.
Geopolitics and Economic Growth
When questioned about Bangladesh's future diplomatic stance—specifically whether he would pivot from India toward China—Rahman emphasized a pragmatic, "Bangladesh-first" approach.
Job Creation: Rahman highlighted that the nation of 175 million people requires partners who can drive economic growth and provide employment for the youth.
Sovereignty: He noted that any nation offering "suitable proposals" that respect Bangladesh’s interests and sovereignty would be welcomed as a friend.
Foreign Policy: The BNP's manifesto recently underscored a commitment to ending "border killings" and securing fair water-sharing agreements regarding common rivers.
The Fate of the Former First Family
Regarding whether the children of the ousted leader, Sheikh Hasina, could ever return to domestic politics, Rahman maintained a neutral, democratic stance.
He stated that the right to participate in politics belongs to anyone—provided they are accepted and welcomed by the general public.
Currently, the Awami League is barred from participating in the upcoming February 12 elections due to its role in the events leading up to the 2024 revolution.
