Eminent Bangladeshi educationist, administrator, social worker, and litterateur Kazi Fazlur Rahman passed away last night (13 December) at approximately 11:00 pm due to age-related complications (Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un). He was 93 years old at the time of his passing. He served as an Adviser to the country’s first Caretaker Government, where he set a unique example of wisdom, integrity, and impartiality in state governance. In post-independence Bangladesh, he successively held the positions of Secretary to the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and the Ministry of Education. His final assignment as a government official was serving as a Member of the Planning Commission with the seniority and status of Cabinet Secretary.
Beyond his national responsibilities, Mr. Rahman also served with distinction at the international level, holding senior positions with various international development organizations, including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. His contribution to social service was equally remarkable. He served as the Chairperson of the Radda MCH–FP Centre from its inception, where his visionary leadership helped establish a strong and sustainable foundation for maternal and child healthcare and family planning services.
A lifelong devotee of literature, Kazi Fazlur Rahman authored three novels, six Bengali short story collections, one English short story collection, and a five-volume diary series published in national newspapers. His contributions to education, administration, social development, and literature were multidimensional and enduring. With his passing, the nation has lost a wise, principled, and guardian-like figure. His illustrious life, values, and moral stance will continue to inspire future generations, and the nation will remember him with profound respect and gratitude.
