After Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh may get another powerful female political leader. This speculation has gained considerable traction in Bangladesh’s political circles, given the recent activities of Zaima Rahman, ever since she has stepped foot on the country’s soil along with her father Tarique Rahman and mother Zubaida.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting Chairperson Tarique, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has recently returned to the country after 17 years of self-imposed exile. Considering the current situation in the country, the BNP is energised by the return of the ‘Dark Prince’ ahead of the elections. But Tarique did not return to his motherland alone; he is accompanied by his daughter Zaima and wife Zubaida Rahman.

Ever since their return to Bangladesh, Zaima’s activities have been under scrutiny. The photos of father and daughter together during Tarique’s return from London, Zaima’s public appearances with her father after returning to Bangladesh, and her participation in BNP meetings have fuelled speculation about her entry into politics. This speculation has been further amplified by Zaima’s recent Facebook post.

Zaima hints at entry into politics through social media post

Taking to social media, Tarique’s daughter has hinted at her entry into politics. She wrote, “I have never forgotten my roots. I also want to play a significant role in rebuilding Bangladesh.” Many believe that this comment suggests she may soon enter politics. Not only will she enter politics, but she will also play a major role in the upcoming national elections.

Just like Khaleda Zia, her granddaughter is also preparing to engage in grassroots politics. Incidentally, on Saturday, Zaima went to the Election Commission along with her father and registered as a voter in Bangladesh.
Zaima’s name resurfaced in Bangladeshi politics during the Hasina administration in 2021. Awami League leader and then-minister Murad Hassan made some objectionable remarks about Zaima. Hassan later had to resign, and an arrest warrant was also issued against him at that time.

Zaima Rahman has also been active in BNP party programmes recently. She virtually attended a party meeting on November 23. She was also present at a meeting of the BNP’s European delegation with expatriate voters. At that time, Zaima also addressed the party workers. This means that although she hasn’t yet officially announced entry into politics, Tarique’s daughter has already stepped into the political arena. Therefore, none of the speculations are baseless.

In a recent interview, Tarique was also asked when his daughter would directly enter politics. In a diplomatic response, he said, “That depends on time and circumstances.”

Zaima recalls childhood memories with Khaleda Zia

Zaima also wrote about Khaleda Zia in her Facebook post. She has been addressing her grandmother Khaleda as “dadu” (grandfather) since childhood. During Khaleda’s Prime Ministerial regime, little Zaima was often seen with her at various events. Tarique’s daughter recalled those childhood memories in her social media post.

Zaima also expressed her opinions on social media during the July uprising of 2024 which led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Recently, she was seen participating in US President Donald Trump’s ‘National Prayer Breakfast’ in Washington D.C.

Women have been the driving force of Bangladeshi politics

According to some Bangladeshi political observers, women have consistently been the driving force of Bangladeshi politics for almost the last three decades. Until recently, the country’s politics revolved around the recently ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia. Given this context, Zaima’s rise would not be surprising.

Earlier, when the BNP was cornered during Hasina’s tenure, Khaleda was imprisoned, and Tarique was facing corruption charges, there was speculation about Zubaida Rahman’s entry into politics. However, nothing of the sort ultimately happened. Tarique continued to lead the party from London. But the chances of that happening with Zaima are slim, because the current situation in Bangladesh is in favour of the BNP.

Zaima’s advantage over father Tarique Rahman

According to political analysts, the BNP wants to capitalise on the enthusiasm surrounding Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh and the trust he has built among the general public with his “I have a plan” rhetoric.

However, there is a counter-argument. Many believe that given the current situation in Bangladesh, the general public wants to see someone with an absolutely clean image in power. Tarique, on the other hand, has faced allegations of corruption in the past, although he has now been acquitted of all those charges. Nevertheless, as the elections approach, his political life will be scrutinized. Opposition parties like Jamaat-e-Islami and the NCP could use the corruption allegations against Tarique as a weapon. In this respect, Zaima Rahman has a completely clean image. She is also a barrister by profession. Therefore, it should not be difficult for her to gain acceptance in Bangladeshi politics.

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