Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday said the government has no restrictions on BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh, as discussions intensify over his possible homecoming amid the critical illness of his mother BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia.

Speaking at a DCAB Talk at the National Press Club, the adviser said Tarique Rahman would be provided with a one-time travel pass if he sought to return. 

“His status is sensitive, but there is no bar from the government. If he wants to come back, the Foreign Ministry will issue a one-time pass. The interim government can issue a travel pass within a day,” he said.

Asked whether any foreign limitations existed, Hossain said the government did not have clarity on Tarique Rahman’s residence status in London. He added that it would be unusual for any foreign state to prevent a Bangladeshi citizen from returning. 

“If Bangladesh wants to bring back any of its citizens, how can another country obstruct it?” he said.

On Saturday, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam outlined the government’s position in a post on his verified Facebook page, saying there were no restrictions on Tarique Rahman’s return. 

He added that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus had expressed deep concern about Khaleda Zia’s health and sought prayers for her recovery.

Speaking to Somoy News, the press secretary said Tarique Rahman could return at any time. “He is the acting chairman of a major political party. He will make decisions as he deems appropriate,” he said.

Earlier, in a Facebook post, Tarique Rahman said the decision to return was not solely within his personal control at the moment. Describing the matter as sensitive, he said he would return when the political situation reached a “desired stage.”