Pakistan, Dec. 25 -- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka on Thursday after nearly 17 years in exile. His homecoming is seen as a major boost for the party ahead of the February 12 national elections. Supporters lined the route from the airport, waving flags, carrying placards, and chanting slogans welcoming him under tight security.

Rahman, 60, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, has led the BNP as acting chairman since 2018 from London. He had been convicted in absentia on charges including money laundering and an alleged plot against former PM Sheikh Hasina, but the convictions were overturned following Hasina's ouster last year.

Dressed in a light grey blazer and white shirt, Rahm...