After about 22 years, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman today joined an election rally of the party in Rajshahi, drawing a large turnout of leaders, activists and supporters.

Tarique arrived on the stage at the Madrasa ground at 1:54pm, accompanied by his wife, Zubaida Rahman. Earlier, at 1:18pm, he paid a visit to the shrine of Shah Makhdum (R).

As he took to the stage, party leaders and activists welcomed him by waving party flags and chanting slogans. Tarique responded by raising his hand to greet the crowd.

He reached Rajshahi airport at 12:20pm and travelled from there to the rally venue on a red-and-green bus.

Along the route, party leaders and activists lined both sides of the road to welcome him, while many local residents gathered on rooftops of nearby buildings to catch a glimpse of the BNP chief.

Tarique greeted supporters from inside the bus as it moved slowly through the crowded streets.

His journey was delayed due to the heavy presence of supporters on the roads. Members of the police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) were deployed to provide security during the procession.

The Rajshahi rally formally began at 1:20pm with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Earlier, at 1:00pm, the national anthem and the BNP’s party song were played.

Prayers were also offered for Khaleda Zia and for those who lost their lives in various political movements over the past 17 years.