Former Caretaker Advisor M. Hafizuddin Khan Passes Away

Bangladesh has lost one of its most steadfast advocates for transparency and governance. M. Hafizuddin Khan, a former advisor to the Caretaker Government and a distinguished civil servant, passed away on the evening of Wednesday, 21 January 2026. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Uttara, Dhaka, following a period of age-related illness. He was 91.

The news of his demise was confirmed by his cousin, Liakat Ali. A man of immense integrity, Mr Khan is survived by his wife and two daughters, both of whom reside in Canada, along with a vast circle of admirers and colleagues who viewed him as a moral compass in the country’s administrative landscape.

A Legacy of Public Service

M. Hafizuddin Khan’s career was defined by his commitment to the state and the rule of law. A seasoned member of the civil service, he reached the pinnacle of his career serving as the Secretary of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. However, it was his role during the crucial transition of 2001 that cemented his legacy. He served as an Advisor to the Caretaker Government, holding the vital portfolios of Finance and Planning, where he was instrumental in ensuring economic stability during a period of political transition.

Beyond his government roles, Mr Khan was a titan in the civil society sector. He served as the Chairman of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) and was the President of the Central Executive Committee of SHUJAN (Citizens for Good Governance). In these roles, he was a fearless critic of corruption and an unwavering voice for electoral reform.

Career Highlights of M. Hafizuddin Khan

Retirement and Reflections

After retiring from active public life nearly fifteen years ago, Mr Khan led a quiet life with his wife at their residence in Uttara. Even in retirement, he remained a sought-after commentator on national affairs, frequently penning columns and participating in dialogues aimed at improving the democratic fabric of Bangladesh.

His contributions to the banking sector were equally notable, having served as a Director for BASIC Bank and Rupali Bank, and as the Chairman of the Board for Agrani Bank. His tenure in these institutions was marked by a strict adherence to fiscal discipline—a trait that defined his entire professional journey.

The passing of M. Hafizuddin Khan marks the end of an era for the Bangladeshi bureaucracy. He will be remembered not only for the offices he held but for the courage with which he spoke truth to power.