BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday proceeded to Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar to pay tribute at the grave of his father, former president and party founder Ziaur Rahman.
He left his Gulshan residence shortly before 3pm on Friday to visit the grave of his father. The BNP Media Cell confirmed the development in a post on its verified Facebook page at 2:58pm.
Leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organisations began gathering in and around Zia Udyan from early morning, many carrying party flags, banners and posters, as they awaited Tarique Rahman’s arrival.
After paying tribute at his father’s grave, Tarique Rahman is scheduled to proceed to the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar to pay homage to the martyrs of the Liberation War.
Tarique Rahman returned to the country on Thursday after 17 years abroad. His visit to Ziaur Rahman’s grave has drawn strong emotional reactions from party leaders and supporters, who described the occasion as a historic and symbolic moment for the BNP.
Security has been tightened in the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area, with additional members of law enforcement deployed around Zia Udyan and on adjacent roads. Check-posts have been set up at key entry points, while party volunteers are assisting in maintaining order.
By noon, crowd density had increased on roads surrounding Zia Udyan. For security reasons, leaders and activists were instructed to remain within designated areas. Authorities said the situation remained under control through coordinated efforts by law enforcement agencies and volunteers.
Earlier, the BNP Media Cell said Tarique Rahman would visit his father’s grave after Jumma prayers before travelling to Savar for the second part of his programme.
