Former BGMEA president Mustafa Golam Quddus laid to rest in Chouddagram Mia Bazar
Mustafa Golam Quddus, a distinguished figure in Bangladesh's industrial and financial sectors, passed away at 6:40 am on Saturday at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka (Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun).
Born on March 4, 1949, in Comilla, he made remarkable contributions to shaping the nation's economic policies and industrial development.
Following his first funeral prayer in Gulshan, Dhaka, a second funeral prayer was held after Maghrib on Saturday at the playground adjacent to Latifunnesa High School and Mia Bazar Degree College in Chouddagram, Comilla—both institutions established by Mustafa Golam Quddus.
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The field and surrounding areas overflowed with mourners, including residents and leaders from political, social, and business sectors.
Among those who addressed the gathering were Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Naib-e-Amir and former MP Dr Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, former BNP MP Monirul Haque Chowdhury, BNP leader Kazi Moniruzzaman, and LDP Secretary General Dr Redwan Ahmed.
Dr Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher recalled Mustafa Golam Quddus as a God-fearing, kind-hearted philanthropist who was well-spoken and generous in his dealings.
Former MP Monirul Haque Chowdhury delivered an emotional tribute, describing Mustafa Golam Quddus as a dear friend. Reflecting on his long absence from the area due to political persecution, Chowdhury regretted being unable to stay in close contact with Quddus.
He strongly criticised the government for its negligence in ensuring proper medical treatment for Quddus, who was suffering from a complex illness. In a passionate speech, he said, "Even though the country is free from fascism now, the current government must answer why a man of Mustafa Golam Quddus' stature, who contributed so much to the socio-economic development of the nation, was not allowed to seek treatment abroad."
The crowd present echoed his sentiments, expressing anger at the government's perceived neglect and mourning the loss of a revered figure who was seen as a guardian of the area.
Dr Redwan Ahmed and Kazi Moniruzzaman also spoke about their close personal and professional relationships with Quddus, highlighting his contributions to industrial development, including his efforts to eliminate child labour in the garment industry.
They praised his public and private philanthropy and prayed for his soul's eternal peace.
The ceremony was attended by the local Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and the Superintendent of Police.
Mustafa Golam Quddus, also a freedom fighter, was honoured with a guard of honour before being laid to rest in his family graveyard near Mia Bazar Degree College.
The region mourns the loss of a visionary leader who left an indelible mark on the nation's industrial and socio-economic development.
