In Remembrance Abdus Samad Azad: A Pillar of Politics

Abdus Samad Azad is an unforgettable name in the political history of Bangladesh. He was simultaneously a wise politician, a public representative and a former minister—whose long and struggle-filled life was dedicated to the country and its people.

He was born on 15 January 1922 in the village of Bhurakhali in Jagannathpur upazila of Sunamganj. His father was Mohammad Shariyatullah. Leadership qualities were evident in him from his student life. He passed his matriculation from Sunamganj Government High School in 1943 and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Murari Chand College in Sylhet in 1948.

His entry into politics came in 1940 when he assumed the presidency of the Sunamganj Subdivision Muslim Students’ Federation. From 1944 to 1948, he served as president of the Sylhet District Students’ Federation, actively participating in various movements and being arrested on several occasions.

In the early 1950s, he spent some time working as a teacher and in the insurance sector, but his true path remained politics. He was imprisoned for his participation in the Language Movement of 1952—a shining example of his patriotism.

In 1953, he became acting president of the East Pakistan Youth League. In the 1954 United Front elections, he was elected as a member of the Provincial Assembly from Sunamganj, earning the trust of the people. In 1955, he joined the Awami League and served as its central labour affairs secretary. Later, when the party split due to ideological differences, he joined the Krishak Sramik Party led by Maulana Bhashani.

After the imposition of martial law in 1958, he was detained and spent four years in prison before being released. He also played a courageous role in resisting the communal riots of 1964, for which he was once again arrested.

In 1969, he rejoined the Awami League and became president of its Sylhet district branch. In the 1970 elections, he was elected a member of the National Assembly.

During the great Liberation War of 1971, he was one of the key organisers of the Mujibnagar Government. Initially, he served as a political adviser and itinerant ambassador, and later, on the eve of independence, he was appointed Foreign Minister. After independence, he served as Minister of Agriculture in the government of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

In the 1973 elections, he was elected Member of Parliament from two constituencies. He later proved his popularity and acceptability by being elected from Sunamganj-3 in the 1991, 1996 and 2001 elections.

Following the military coup of 1975, he was once again arrested and remained in prison until 1978.

After a long life of struggle, he passed away on 27 April 2005 in Dhaka.

Deep respect is offered to this great leader—an enduring symbol of patriotism, principles and sacrifice.