H. M. Nazmul Alam

Tarique Rahman’s name in Bangladesh is often associated with politics and leadership within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Yet, beneath the surface of his political persona lies a rarely spoken side of him: a man committed to silently changing lives through philanthropy. For over a decade, this acting chairman of the BNP has been quietly conducting humanitarian efforts that have often remained outside the limelight—actions that transcend political calculations, proving that sometimes a leader’s true worth is measured not by public declarations but by silent deeds.

Reports from the newspapers and other sources have unveiled stories of Tarique Rahman’s discreet yet impactful philanthropic initiatives, many of which are unknown to the general public. From providing financial aid to the helpless, building homes for the disadvantaged, to funding education for students who could otherwise not afford it, Tarique Rahman’s charitable activities span a wide range of sectors. Although he operates mostly from London due to his exile, the impact of his quiet contributions resonates across the country. While some would see these efforts as political maneuvers, his close associates and beneficiaries argue that these actions stem from personal empathy rather than strategic calculations.

A Tale of Silent Generosity

Consider the story of Salma (not her real name), a young girl diagnosed with blood cancer, whose family was on the verge of discontinuing her treatment due to financial constraints. Just as hope was fading, an anonymous donor stepped forward to fund her treatment, allowing her to continue the fight against her illness. Only later did Salma's family learn that the benefactor was none other than Tarique Rahman. This is but one instance of his silent generosity that has saved lives and changed the futures of many.

But Salma’s case is far from an isolated one. Over the years, Tarique Rahman has quietly supported many such families, often without ever revealing his involvement. Shahnaz Begum, the widow of a former BNP organizer allegedly killed by Awami League members, recounts how Tarique not only provided for her children’s education but also built a home for them. She said she felt as though she was part of his extended family and prays daily for his well-being. This kind of personal connection with the people he helps reflects a leader who goes beyond transactional charity to one who truly understands the struggles of the common people.

Beyond Party Politics

Perhaps what is most striking about Tarique Rahman’s philanthropic endeavors is their deeply personal and apolitical nature. Although many of the recipients of his aid are connected to the BNP, there are numerous examples where his compassion transcends political boundaries. In Bogra, for instance, Tarique Rahman took charge of an orphanage that predominantly caters to children with visual impairments. This madrasa for blind orphans continues to function under his sponsorship, ensuring not only their education but also medical care, including eye surgeries that have restored sight for some students.

Even more striking is that many of the beneficiaries of his generosity are unaware of his role. They often assume that the help is coming from local BNP leaders or charitable organizations, when in reality, it is Tarique Rahman quietly pulling the strings from behind the scenes. This reluctance to seek recognition adds an element of genuine altruism to his efforts—a quality that is increasingly rare in the world of politics.

A Comprehensive Approach

His charitable initiatives are not limited to education and health care. Over the years, Tarique Rahman has also provided financial support to families of those abducted, killed, or injured during political movements, ensuring that the loved ones of martyrs do not languish in poverty. In Laxmipur, for instance, after a local BNP leader was allegedly tortured to death, Tarique stepped in to build a home for his widow and children, offering them a lifeline at a time when they had lost both their breadwinner and any sense of security.

Similarly, Tarique Rahman has taken responsibility for several orphanages and constructed houses for the homeless, using his own funds or directing BNP-affiliated groups like "Amra BNP Paribar" (We are BNP Family) to carry out the work. His humanitarian work even extends to distributing prosthetic limbs to victims of political violence, many of whom lost their limbs during confrontations with law enforcement or rival political groups.

One poignant example of his wide-reaching philanthropy is the story of a pregnant woman who was tragically killed in Mymensingh when a truck ran over her. After her death, Tarique Rahman ensured that her family received monthly financial support, alleviating their burden in a time of unimaginable grief.

Education, His Legacy for the Future

Education, however, remains a central pillar of Tarique Rahman’s philanthropic vision. Over the past decade, he has funded the education of over 1,300 students, many of whom have gone on to become doctors, engineers, and even military officers. His support often begins at a young age, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and any other necessary costs, enabling these children to dream bigger than their circumstances would allow.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of this is that many of these students had no idea who was funding their education. They assumed the support came from anonymous donors or their local community, unaware that it was being personally directed by Tarique Rahman. In a society where education can break the cycle of poverty, these acts of quiet generosity are transformative.

One such story involves two students who have now joined the military, and another seven or eight who have become engineers—all of them, unbeknownst to themselves, owed their careers to Tarique Rahman’s vision for a better Bangladesh.

A Larger Vision for Bangladesh

While much of his charitable work is conducted in secrecy, those who work closely with him, like Atikur Rahman Ruman, the convener of "Amra BNP Paribar," have been vocal in praising his long-standing commitment to philanthropy. Ruman recalls how Tarique, even in his youth, exhibited a deep sympathy for the less fortunate, often going out of his way to help those in need. His charitable actions, dating back to his days in power, have only intensified during his time in exile.

In an interview, Ruman summed up Tarique Rahman’s vision: "I want to build a Bangladesh where there will be no need for such platforms or individuals to assist the needy because no one will be helpless or impoverished." This aspirational message speaks to a broader vision of social welfare that goes beyond temporary handouts—it reflects a desire to create lasting structural changes that can uplift the entire nation.

A Complex Leader in Uncertain Times

Tarique Rahman’s philanthropy offers a glimpse into a more nuanced, multi-dimensional figure than his political career alone would suggest. His efforts to help the underprivileged, support victims of political violence, and provide educational opportunities to disadvantaged children paint a picture of a leader who, despite his own challenges, remains deeply committed to the welfare of others.

These acts of generosity suggest that beneath the political strategies and public speeches lies a man who is quietly working to improve the lives of the people he seeks to lead—a man whose true legacy may one day be defined not by political victories or losses, but by the lives he has changed for the better.

The writer is a, Lecturer, Department of English and Modern Languages, International University of Business, Agriculture and Technology