Dhaka, Dec 15, (V7N) - After a hiatus of seven years, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is set to participate in a political event. If all goes according to plan, she will attend the Nationalist Freedom Fighters' Dal rally on December 21, marking her return to the political arena. The rally, organized to commemorate the Victory Day, will take place at the China Maitree Conference Center in the capital, Dhaka. This information was confirmed by several party sources on Saturday.

Khaleda Zia’s last public political engagement was in February 2018, and since then, she has remained largely absent from political activities due to legal and health issues. According to sources, her participation in the rally will depend on her physical condition. The event will be limited to two hours to accommodate her health needs. Alongside Khaleda Zia, BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to join the event virtually.

Sadeq Ahmed Khan, the general secretary of the Freedom Fighters’ Dal, confirmed that Tarique Rahman had assured them that Khaleda Zia would be present at the rally. Every year, BNP's affiliate organization, the Freedom Fighters’ Party, has organized various events on the occasion of Victory Day and Independence Day. Despite facing significant hurdles, particularly under the Awami League-led government, the party has continued to hold its rallies. However, this year, following the 2024 uprising, the leaders are hopeful of a peaceful and conducive environment for their gathering.

The leaders emphasized that the rally’s atmosphere would be more favorable this year, and they have invited Khaleda Zia as the chief guest. This invitation has been accepted, according to party officials. To ensure a smooth event, the organizing committee has chosen the China Maitree Conference Center as the venue, considering Khaleda Zia’s health condition. The rally will begin at 3 p.m. and conclude by 5 p.m., with the participation of senior BNP leaders, including the permanent committee members.

Khaleda Zia’s return to the political scene after a prolonged absence is a significant development for the BNP, especially at a time when the country is gearing up for the upcoming general elections in 2024. Her participation in the rally is seen as a strategic move to rally her supporters and show her ongoing influence within the party. Experts suggest that this appearance will further consolidate her position as the leader of the opposition, especially given the ongoing political turbulence in Bangladesh.

However, political analysts are divided on what this means for the broader political landscape. Some believe that Khaleda Zia's public re-engagement might help galvanize the BNP’s supporters, while others remain skeptical, citing her long absence from the forefront of politics. Despite her health issues, her presence is likely to serve as a symbol of resistance against the ruling government, particularly with the growing opposition movements ahead of the election season.

BNP's leaders have made it clear that Khaleda Zia’s participation in the rally will not only be a political statement but also a reflection of the party's resilience in the face of political adversity. With the rally expected to attract significant attention, it remains to be seen how Khaleda Zia’s return will influence the dynamics of Bangladesh's political scene in the months leading up to the election.

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