The other returnee: Zebu the cat steps into the spotlight on Tarique's homecoming

Zaima Rahman's pet cat appears as a profile picture on Facebook for many users, and a dedicated page has also been created for her

As BNP leader Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh with his wife and daughter after 17 years in exile, one member of the household drew particular attention online — Zebu, the family’s pet cat.

The Siberian cat has since appeared as a profile picture on Facebook for many supporters, and a dedicated Facebook page has been opened in her name. Social media stickers featuring Zebu have also begun circulating.

Tarique has previously spoken about the cat’s place in the family during their years abroad.

In April this year, he shared three photographs of himself with Zebu, including one showing him holding a mobile phone while the cat appeared to watch the screen intently.

In an interview with BBC Bangla in October, he spoke about the bond they share.

“Let me be clear — the cat belongs to my daughter,” he said. “But she has now become everyone’s. We all care for her.”