DHAKA: Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on Thursday after nearly 17 years in exile, a homecoming the party hopes will energise supporters with Rahman poised to be the top contender for prime minister in the February 12 elections. Hundreds of thousands of supporters lined the route from the capital’s airport to the reception venue, waving party flags and carrying placards, banners, and flowers, while chanting slogans welcoming Rahman, as senior BNP leaders received him at the Dhaka airport under tight security.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party plans to rally 5 million supporters Thursday to welcome leader Tarique Rahman home after nearly 17 years in exile,...

Tarique Rahman returns to Dhaka on December 25 after 18 years, launching BNP's campaign ahead of the February elections.