Dhaka, Dec 25 (V7N) – Supporters and leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allied organizations have started gathering in the capital from various parts of the country ahead of Tarique Rahman’s arrival. Since Tuesday night, thousands of party members have been arriving in Dhaka by bus, train, and launch. A large group assembled on Wednesday in front of the stage on the 300-Foot Road in Kuril-Purba Chattala, carrying national and party flags, banners, and placards.

Many supporters said they had come to welcome Tarique Rahman, who is returning after 17 years of self-exile. While some arrived independently, others came through party arrangements. Additional supporters from surrounding districts are expected to join throughout the day.

Tarique Rahman is scheduled to reach the reception stage directly from the airport via Banani and Kakoli. Observers reported that the stage construction has been completed and the area decorated with banners, flags, and streamers. From early morning, supporters from Kishoreganj, Sirajganj, Kushtia, Narayanganj, Chattogram, Rangpur, Bogura, and other parts of the country have been inspecting the stage and preparing for the event. Many arrived the previous night to secure spots at the front. By morning, thousands were already present around the stage, holding party flags and festoons, and chanting slogans in support of Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman.

Crowds grew larger in the evening, causing traffic congestion on surrounding roads, prompting intervention by traffic police. To ensure that attendees could hear the speeches, speakers were installed along the 300-Foot Road up to Hotel Radisson.

Police personnel, along with military teams, were deployed to maintain security in and around the stage. Multiple military teams patrolled the area in vehicles, coordinating with local authorities to ensure a safe environment for the gathering.

District BNP leaders described the event as the largest political gathering since August 5 and called December 25 a day of celebration rather than a routine program. Supporters emphasized that the massive turnout for Tarique Rahman reflects the strength of the party’s political influence.

Seven reception centers were established outside Dhaka to welcome arriving supporters, including Postgola Bridge, Demra, Jatrabari, Sadarghat Launch Terminal, Babubazar Bridge, Kamalapur Railway Station, and Syedabad Bus Terminal. Additionally, parking zones were arranged in Mohakhali and Phulbari for attendees’ convenience.

END/AJ/SMA/