BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is set to make her first appearance in a political programme in seven years on December 21, reigniting discussions about her symbolic presence and the possibility of a political comeback.

While the former prime minister's attendance at the event is significant for BNP supporters, party insiders think her role will remain largely ceremonial due to her deteriorating health and the current leadership dynamics that formed during her absence.

For now, Khaleda's appearance signals a symbolic return to the public eye, reinforcing her enduring legacy as the BNP's figurehead, even as the party navigates its challenges under the leadership of her son and the party's acting chairman Tarique Rahman.

Pro-BNP freedom fighters' group the Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal will organise the event under the theme "Shobar Age Bangladesh" (Bangladesh First) at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

Khaleda will attend as the chief guest. Tarique, who has been leading the party from London, is also expected to address the rally virtually.

Her return to the public stage after years of political inactivity comes at a critical time in Bangladesh's politics. An interim government led by Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus is in power after the ouster of the Awami League on August 5 in the face of a student-led mass uprising. Khaleda's archrival and deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India during the massive political changeover.

The political vacuum created by these developments allowed the BNP leadership to regain momentum in street politics as well as in the shifting national political landscape. Now the announcement of her appearance in the rally has once again put Khaleda at the centre of attention in the political arena.

Khaleda has already resumed some activities. She attended the Armed Forces Day programme at Dhaka Cantonment on November 21, further fuelling speculations about her ability to reengage with party activities despite her health constraints.

However, party insiders remain cautious about her long-term political engagement.

One senior party leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "Her physical condition remains fragile. She cannot move alone. While her presence is a source of inspiration, a full-fledged comeback is highly unlikely."

The leader also pointed to Tarique's growing influence within the party, saying, "Tarique Rahman has established a strong command over the BNP. If Khaleda Zia attempts to take an active role again, it may create unnecessary internal chaos."

Khaleda's presence still holds symbolic value for the BNP, with many party supporters viewing her as the unifying figurehead of the parties that opposed the Awami League's rule.

Muktijoddha Dal President Ishtiaq Aziz Ulfat said, "We invited her to the rally, and she gladly accepted. Although she is unwell, we hope she will say a few words at the event. This alone brings immense joy to the freedom fighters."

Around 1,500 freedom fighters are expected to attend the rally, which forms part of BNP's Victory Day programmes.

The rally is expected to draw leaders from BNP-affiliated organisations, political allies, and members of civil society. The organisers hope the event will strengthen party unity and inspire supporters at a time of heightened political tension.

Party leaders interviewed by The Daily Star believe Khaleda's return to the political stage will be a critical juncture and an emotional boost for the BNP amid its push for election at the earliest possible time after necessary reforms promised by the interim government.

The BNP leaders also recognised the limitations of her involvement as there are also renewed hopes that Khaleda may travel abroad for advanced medical treatment, something the BNP has long been demanding.

The 79-year-old former premier has been battling multiple health complications, including arthritis, diabetes, liver cirrhosis, and kidney ailments, and requires specialised care unavailable in Bangladesh, according to her doctors.

She last addressed a BNP rally on November 12, 2017, at Suhrawardy Udyan, and presided over her final extended party meeting on February 4, 2018, just two days before her arrest in a corruption case.

Since her release on conditional bail in 2020, she has remained confined to her residence Firoza in Gulshan, with frequent visits to Evercare Hospital for treatment. Although her release was secured on humanitarian grounds, legal restrictions have barred her from active political participation.