Tarique Rahman

Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP @bdbnp78

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic loss of lives, caused by the devastating floods that have struck Nepal. On behalf of my people and Government, I convey our deepest condolences to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and the people of Nepal.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost their lives, and with their families and loved ones as they bear this immense loss. We stand ready to extend any support that Nepal may need at this time of distress.

Photo courtesy: Nepal times

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

I pray that the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, makes a speedy and full recovery. May Allah bless him with lasting health and strength. The people of Bangladesh join me in conveying our warmest wishes to our nation's valued friend.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Many congratulations to our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Khalilur Rahman, on his election as the President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

This achievement reflects Bangladesh’s increasing contribution and credibility on the global stage. We believe he will proudly represent Bangladesh and forge connectivity, dialogue, and cooperation in addressing multilateral, shared challenges. We wish him every success in this new responsibility.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Strongly condemning the cowardly act of violence at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. Relieved to learn that the @POTUS, the First lady and others are unharmed. We stand firmly against all forms of violence.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Bangladesh has emerged as champions by defeating India in the SAFF U-20 final. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the team on this proud achievement.

The government has already begun implementing its plans to establish sports as a viable professional path. This remarkable success of our young athletes will undoubtedly inspire millions of sports enthusiasts across the country. Driven by patriotism and strong team spirit, our talented youth have demonstrated that with unity and determination, Bangladesh’s journey of success will continue both at home and abroad, InshaAllah.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

On the occasion of the great Independence and National Day, 26 March, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of Bangladesh at all levels, as well as to all Bangladeshis living abroad.

March 26 is a glorious and historic day in our national life. On this day, I remember with profound respect the nation's finest sons, whose sacrifices enabled us to achieve an independent and sovereign Bangladesh. At the same time, I recall with deep gratitude the brave freedom fighters who took part in the Liberation War, the mothers, sisters who suffered oppression and all those who devoted themselves to the struggle for independence. I pray for the eternal peace of the departed souls of all the martyrs.

The Great Independence Day inspires us anew with the spirit of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. The fundamental goal of independence was to establish a Bangladesh that is free from discriminations, and to be democratic, peaceful and prosperous.

Keeping that goal before us, we must work together and continue to move the country forward.

To further accelerate the progress and development of our beloved motherland, we must uphold in our hearts the spirit of national unity, mutual tolerance and patriotism.

Let us draw inspiration from the significance of the Great Independence and National Day and dedicate ourselves, from our respective positions, to the welfare of the country. Together, let us work to build a developed, prosperous and dignified Bangladesh.

I wish every success to all programmes organised on the occasion of the Great Independence and National Day.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

March 25, 1971 is observed as Genocide Day. On the occasion of Genocide Day, 1 pay my deepest respect to all the martyrs.

In the history of freedom-loving Bangladesh, 25 March 1971 remains one of the most disgraceful and brutal days. On that dark night, the Pakistani occupation forces carried out one of the most heinous genocides in history against the unarmed people of Bangladesh in the name of 'Operation Searchlight".

They indiscriminately opened fire on teachers, intellectuals and innocent civilians at various places, including Dhaka University, Pilkhana and Rajarbāgh Police Lines, killing many people.

The genocide of 25 March was a pre-planned massacre. Why this organised killing spree could not be resisted remains a matter of historical research regarding the visible role of the political leadership of that time.

However, on the night of 25 March, the 8th East Bengal Regiment in Chattogram formally initiated armed resistance against the genocide by declaring 'We Revolt'. Through this resistance to genocide, the long nine-month armed Liberation War began.

To convey the value and significance of independence to the present and future generations, it is essential to know about the genocide of 25 March as well. Let us all strive to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs by establishing in the state and society the spirit of the great Liberation War - equality, human dignity and social justice.

Let us work together to build a just, developed, prosperous, self-reliant and democratic Bangladesh.

I pray to the Almighty Allah to grant forgiveness and eternal peace to the departed souls of all the martyrs.

On the occasion of Genocide Day on 25 March. I wish every success to all the programmes organised to observe the day.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

March 25, 1971 is observed as Genocide Day. On the occasion of Genocide Day, 1 pay my deepest respect to all the martyrs.

In the history of freedom-loving Bangladesh, 25 March 1971 remains one of the most disgraceful and brutal days. On that dark night, the Pakistani occupation forces carried out one of the most heinous genocides in history against the unarmed people of Bangladesh in the name of 'Operation Searchlight".

They indiscriminately opened fire on teachers, intellectuals and innocent civilians at various places, including Dhaka University, Pilkhana and Rajarbāgh Police Lines, killing many people.

The genocide of 25 March was a pre-planned massacre. Why this organised killing spree could not be resisted remains a matter of historical research regarding the visible role of the political leadership of that time.

However, on the night of 25 March, the 8th East Bengal Regiment in Chattogram formally initiated armed resistance against the genocide by declaring 'We Revolt'. Through this resistance to genocide, the long nine-month armed Liberation War began.

To convey the value and significance of independence to the present and future generations, it is essential to know about the genocide of 25 March as well. Let us all strive to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs by establishing in the state and society the spirit of the great Liberation War - equality, human dignity and social justice.

Let us work together to build a just, developed, prosperous, self-reliant and democratic Bangladesh.

I pray to the Almighty Allah to grant forgiveness and eternal peace to the departed souls of all the martyrs.

On the occasion of Genocide Day on 25 March. I wish every success to all the programmes organised to observe the day.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Congratulations to the Government and the people of Nepal on the successful and peaceful parliamentary elections held on 5 March 2026. This important democratic exercise reflects the aspirations and resilience of the Nepali people and the strength of their democratic institutions. Bangladesh looks forward to working closely with the new Government and the people of Nepal to further strengthen our longstanding friendship and cooperation.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all women in Bangladesh and across the world.

This year’s theme, 'Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls', is both timely and deeply meaningful. It reminds us that the advancement of women cannot be secured by words alone. Rights must be protected in practice, justice must be felt in everyday life, and action must bring real improvement to the lives of women and girls.

For Bangladesh, this message carries special importance. Women are not only half of our population; they are the strength of our families, the foundation of our communities, and an essential force in our national progress. Their contribution is visible in every sphere of life - in the home, in education, in agriculture, in industry, in public service, and in leadership. No nation can achieve balanced and sustainable development unless women are empowered to participate fully, live with dignity, and move forward with confidence and security.

It is in this broader national vision that the Family Card holds such significance. This is a pioneering initiative, not only in design but in purpose. By issuing the card in the name of the mother or female head of the household, it recognises a simple but profound truth: in countless families across our country, women are the main pillar of resilience, sacrifice, and care. They carry the responsibility of holding families together through hardship, managing limited resources, and safeguarding the well-being of children and elders alike.

The true value of this initiative lies in what it can mean for ordinary people. For a woman facing economic hardship, direct support can provide a measure of financial security and dignity. For a household living close to poverty, it can offer stability in uncertain times. For children, it can help protect nutrition, education, and health. When support reaches women directly, it strengthens not only the individual woman, but the entire family unit. In this way, the Family Card can become a powerful instrument for reducing vulnerability, easing the burden of poverty, and creating a more secure social foundation.

That is why the Family Card reflects the spirit of this year’s Women’s Day theme so clearly. It speaks to rights, by affirming the place of women at the centre of family and national life. It speaks to justice, by seeking to support those families who bear the greatest economic burden. And it speaks to action, by translating commitment into practical assistance that can improve daily life.

Women’s empowerment must not be understood in narrow terms. It is not only a matter of representation; it is a matter of human dignity, social balance, and national development. A stronger woman means a stronger family. A stronger family means a stronger society. And a stronger society means a stronger Bangladesh.

On this International Women’s Day, let us renew our collective commitment to building a Bangladesh where every woman can live in safety, walk in dignity, and contribute with full confidence to the future of the nation.

Let rights be meaningful, justice be visible, and action bring lasting change to the lives of all women and girls.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

I congratulate Prime Minister @takaichi_sanae and her party on their decisive victory in Japan’s parliamentary elections.

The result reflects the confidence of the Japanese people in democratic participation and accountable leadership. Japan once again demonstrates how credible elections can produce stability, clarity of direction, and renewed public trust in institutions.

As Bangladesh approaches its own national elections, this moment carries an important lesson for all democracies: when citizens are allowed to freely exercise their right to vote, the outcome strengthens the nation, regardless of political affiliation. Free, fair, and peaceful elections are the foundation of progress, empowering citizens to shape their future and affirm the legitimacy of governance.

I hope Prime Minister Takaichi’s leadership will further deepen the long-standing friendship between Japan and Bangladesh, and contribute to peace, prosperity, and democratic values across Asia.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

“We need to work together, unite, so that people can have their political rights.” My interview with @TIME

https://t.co/OFmnU368jz

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Mark Tully.

Sir Mark was a respected journalist and a true friend of Bangladesh. Through his work with the BBC, he helped the world understand the story of our Liberation War and the struggles, hopes and resilience of the Bangladeshi people. His reporting was honest, humane and rooted in deep respect for truth.

Bangladesh will always remember his contribution to journalism and his solidarity during some of our most defining moments as a nation. For that, we remain grateful.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at the BBC. May he rest in peace.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Amid the campaign trail, I came across some inspiring news for Bangladesh. Congratulations to our women’s futsal team on becoming the inaugural SAFF Women’s Futsal Champions. Their sportsmanship and talent show what is possible even with limited resources. Our vision must be to nurture and empower them further, so they can take Bangladesh’s pride and potential to the global stage

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

As the three-day national mourning period for Begum Khaleda Zia comes to a close, our family has been deeply moved by the continued outpouring of condolences and prayers from across the country and from friends abroad. These three days have shown us the many ways in which my mother meant something different to different people, often in ways we may not have fully known or seen.

To many she came to symbolise the courage to stand up for what one truly believes in and remain steadfast in conviction, despite the hardship. That lesson resonates far beyond politics, touching people wherever they are and whoever they may be.

We are eternally thankful to the interim government, and to Professor Muhammad Yunus and his Cabinet, whose leadership and swift coordination made it possible to arrange such an honourific farewell in such a short time.

To the international community, our neighbours, friends, diplomats, and partners around the world, you have warmed our hearts with your compassion and solidarity. The presence of dignitaries at the funeral, the letters and messages of condolence, the words written in condolence books, the countless expressions shared through social media, and official statements by leaders, local missions in Bangladesh, and organisations across the country has been incredible to see.

Once again, we are deeply grateful to all the servicemen and women involved, across the armed forces and law-enforcement agencies, across coordinating administrations and ministries. My family and I were truly touched by your sense of duty and care during my mother’s final farewell.

We remain grateful to all who helped ensure these days of mourning were conducted with dignity and care. I wish to offer special thanks to the President Guard Regiment, whose solemn guard of honour and final salute paid the highest tribute to my mother’s life and service. By escorting Begum Khaleda Zia with such respect to her final resting place, you embodied the nation’s reverence and ensured that her last journey was marked with the honour it deserved.

I am also mindful that many others, whose names or roles may not have been mentioned, contributed in countless ways to ensuring the day unfolded seamlessly. To all who served behind the scenes or beyond public view, please accept my heartfelt thanks. Your efforts made it possible, Alhamdulillah, for our family and for the nation to honour her memory with dignity.

And finally, to the people of Bangladesh. To see so many of you, from every corner of the nation, gather in reverence for my mother was something our family could never have anticipated. It was a powerful and unifying moment that reflected the compassion and shared humanity of our people.

On behalf of our family and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, we thank everyone who stood with us in grief and remembrance. Your kindness and solidarity have been a source of comfort and strength, and we carry them forward with gratitude.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

Yesterday, with a heart full of sorrow and gratitude, I laid my beloved mother, my first teacher in life, three-time Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, to her final rest beside my father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. The weight of her absence is immeasurable, but your presence, the Bangladeshi people's, has made this profound moment feel less alone.

I am deeply moved by the outpouring of love from so many friends, neighbours, well-wishers, and families who came in their millions to honour her life and legacy. Seeing you all here, standing with our family through these most difficult hours, reminded me of something very precious: that she was not only a mother to me, but in many ways a mother of this nation.

I also wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the senior dignitaries of countries from the South Asian region who came here personally, and to those countries, diplomats and partners who shared their condolences with the family and party, with their deep respect and sympathy. Your gestures of condolence have touched our hearts profoundly.

In this moment of personal loss, I cannot help but remember the ones I have lost before, my dear father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, and my brother Arafat Rahman. And yet, to be surrounded here by so many who feel like family has been a source of comfort I never expected on a day like this. Today, at a time of greatest sorrow, I feel like this whole nation is my family.

My mother devoted her life to serving others, day after day, with relentless dedication. I feel the weight of that legacy, and I promise to honour it with humility and commitment. Where her journey paused, I will strive to continue her work to the people whose faith and love sustained her until her last breath.

May Allah grant her eternal peace, and may we find strength in the devotion she shared with us all.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

In yesterday's moments of deep personal loss, I want to speak from the heart and thank the many individuals whose care and professionalism helped the country conduct itself through my mother’s final farewell.

I am deeply grateful to the officers and personnel of the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force who stood with dignity and diligence throughout the day. Many of you were on duty for long hours, ensuring order and calm while remaining mindful of the grief that surrounded us. Your conduct reflected not only discipline, but kindness.

My sincere thanks also go to the men and women serving across our security and law-enforcement services: the Home Adviser’s office, the Police, BGB, Ansar & VDP, RAB, and APBN. You worked patiently and respectfully, helping millions of people gather and return safely, allowing families to mourn and pay their respects in peace.

I am equally thankful to those whose work is often unseen, the dedicated individuals of DGFI, NSI, and the Special Branch (SB). Your vigilance helped ensure the safety and smooth flow of the day.

I would also like to acknowledge the many public servants and staff working within the National Security Adviser’s office, PSO AFD, DG SSF, and the teams from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Your thoughtful coordination and steady presence helped ensure that everything was handled with care.

I am grateful to the officers and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, whose thoughtful efforts helped ensure that senior dignitaries from abroad were able to personally convey the condolences of their respective countries. Their presence reflected the deep respect my mother was held in beyond our borders.

Covering the event amid a vast crowd spread across several square kilometres was an immense challenge for journalists. Despite these harsh conditions, media professionals from home and abroad worked with dedication to document and share accurate coverage of the janaza prayers and burial worldwide. I extend my sincere respect and heartfelt thanks to all of them.

I also wish to thank Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, and the members of his cabinet, for attending in person and for helping to guide the day with steadiness and care during a moment of national mourning.

On behalf of my family, I thank each of you, not as institutions, but as people, for the empathy, respect, and sense of duty you showed at a time when we were grieving a great loss. Your efforts made it possible for our family, Alhamdilillah, and for the nation, to honour her memory with dignity.

[Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp]

My mother, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, has responded to the call of Almighty Allah and left us today. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un (Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return).

To many, she was the leader of the nation, an uncompromising leader, the Mother of Democracy, the Mother of Bangladesh. Today, the country mourns the loss of a guiding presence that shaped its democratic aspirations.
To me, Khaleda Zia was a tender and loving mother who devoted her entire life to the country and its people. Throughout her life, she stood firm against autocracy, fascism, and domination, leading the struggle for freedom, sovereignty, and the restoration of democracy.

Though her life was illuminated by sacrifice and struggle, at home she was our truest guardian, a mother whose infinite love gave us strength in our darkest moments. She endured repeated arrests, denial of medical care, and relentless persecution. Yet even in pain, confinement, and uncertainty, she never stopped sheltering her family with courage and compassion. Her resilience was not loud, but it was unbreakable.

For the country, she lost her husband; she lost her child. In that loss, this nation and its people became her family, her purpose, her very soul. She leaves behind an unforgettable legacy of patriotism, sacrifice, and resistance, a legacy that will live on in the democratic conscience of Bangladesh.

I ask you all to pray for my mother. For the profound emotion, love, and respect shown by the people of this country and by the world, my family and I remain eternally grateful.