Dhaka (HRNW)- After three and a half decades, signs of a significant change are emerging in Bangladeshi politics, the axis of which is now becoming the younger generation, especially Gen Z, along with traditional political families. According to political observers, this change could have a profound impact on the country’s political narrative and style of governance.
Tariq Rahman’s return to the country after 17 years of exile is being described as a continuation of the same youth movement that ended former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s long rule in 2024. Students and young voters played a decisive role in this movement.
Tariq Rahman, 60, is the son of former President Zia-ur-Rehman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and now he seems eager to carry forward his family’s political legacy in a new way.
Analysts say Tariq Rahman’s recent political success has included the strong support of young voters and the student movement. He is presenting himself as a modern, reformist and digital-era leader.
According to Tariq Rahman, he wants to see a Bangladesh where technology is promoted, merit is prioritized and freedom of expression is ensured. These were the main demands of the 2024 protest movement.
It should be remembered that Tariq Rahman had left the country in 2008 and moved to London during the military-backed caretaker government, but during this period he was constantly in touch with the youth through social media and online platforms. He was welcomed by a large number of young activists and students upon his return to Dhaka last December.
In the context of the economic, administrative and social challenges facing the country, the biggest question now is whether the enthusiasm of the youth and Tariq Rahman’s political experience will be able to pull Bangladesh out of the current crises? According to observers, the new generation wants practical results, not just slogans, and this will be the real test of the new leadership in the coming days.
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