The Students Toppled a Dictator. A Political Dynasty Got the Reward.

After 17 years in exile, Tarique Rahman returned to a hero’s welcome and 50 days later became Bangladesh's prime minister-elect.

The Students Toppled a Dictator. A Political Dynasty Got the Reward.
BNP leader Tarique Rahman casts his ballot at a polling station in Dhaka on February 12, 2026. Photo: Salman Saeed.