Dhaka, Dec. 25 -- Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has expressed his gratitude to the nation after returning home, ending an exile that lasted over 17 years.

At 1:40pm on Thursday, while en route to a reception stage on Purbachal's July 36 Expressway, commonly known as the 300 Feet Road, to address a massive gathering of supporters, the BNP acting chairman wrote on Facebook: "Thankful to all."

The post was accompanied by four photographs showcasing the heavy security cordons and the jubilant crowds surrounding his motorcade as it departed the airport.

As Tarigue's convoy moved slowly away from the terminal, supporters lining both sides of the road chanted a continuous stream of slogans.

The route from ...