Freedom War Organiser Tofail Ahmed Passes Away

With profound sorrow and respect, we remember Tofail Ahmed, one of the key organisers of Bangladesh’s Great Liberation War (Liberation War), a prominent leader of the 1969 Mass Uprising, a veteran politician, and former Minister of Industries.

He breathed his last on Monday (1 June) while undergoing treatment at Square Hospital in the capital. He was 82. According to family sources and those close to him, he passed away at around 4:00 pm. (Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un).

Tofail Ahmed was a distinguished and influential figure in Bangladesh’s political history. He was one of the principal leaders of the historic 1969 Mass Uprising and played a leading role in the student movement that accelerated the Bengali nation’s struggle for independence. During that pivotal period, he helped unite the student community and provided leadership to the mass movement. As a close associate of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, he played a significant role in national politics. It was Tofail Ahmed who publicly announced the conferral of the title “Bangabandhu” upon Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the historic mass rally of 1969.

During the 1971 Liberation War, he served as one of its organisers and remained actively involved in the movement for Bangladesh’s independence. He carried out important organisational responsibilities and made a notable contribution to the struggle that led to the establishment of an independent Bangladesh.

Born on 22 October 1943 in Koralia village of Bhola district, Tofail Ahmed became involved in politics during his student years. While studying at the University of Dhaka, he gained prominence as a student leader and later served as Vice-President of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU).

Following Bangladesh’s independence, he enjoyed a long political career. He was elected to the Jatiya Sangsad on multiple occasions and held several important ministerial portfolios, including industries and commerce. His political acumen, organisational skills, and leadership established him as a distinctive figure in the country’s political landscape.

According to available information, he had been suffering from various health complications for a considerable period. A stroke had left part of his body paralysed, and he had relied on a wheelchair for several years. In September last year, he was admitted to hospital in critical condition and was subsequently placed on life support.

The passing of Tofail Ahmed marks the loss of a significant figure in Bangladesh’s political arena. His long record of political struggle, patriotism, leadership, and commitment to the ideals of the Liberation War will remain an enduring part of the nation’s history.

As a political activist, organiser of the Liberation War, and leader of the people, he will continue to be remembered in the history of Bangladesh.

May Almighty Allah grant him Jannatul Ferdous and extend patience and strength to his family, colleagues, well-wishers, and all those mourning his loss.