Dhaka: A memorial meeting and doa mahfil was held today in commemoration of late Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman. Speakers at the event, held in the conference room of the Ministry of Commerce, remembered him as a paragon of professionalism, honesty, and human virtues, said a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Commerce Minister Khandker Abdul Muktadir, attending as the chief guest, shared personal reflections on interactions with the late Secretary. He described Rahman as one of his first close colleagues whose work ethic was both positive and inspiring. Addressing the common perception of friction between ministers and bureaucrats, the minister noted that Rahman was an exception who always offered sincere cooperation. “He never harbored a negative attitude; rather, he always prioritized the national interest,” the minister said. He further highlighted Rahman’s exceptional personality, noting that the secretary never spoke negatively about his colleagues or other officials.
The minister recounted Rahman’s tireless commitment to the public, sharing that even after working until 9:30 pm, the secretary would not hesitate to join him in the field to monitor market conditions. Mahbubur Rahman was a distinguished officer of the 13th batch of the Bangladesh Civil Service (Customs and Excise) cadre. He had officially taken over the responsibilities of Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce on February 25 of the previous year.
He was admitted to Square Hospital in Dhaka on April 13 after a drop in blood platelets and was subsequently diagnosed with malaria. He passed away at 6:30 am on April 17. The memorial featured speeches from several senior officials and family members, including Md. Abdur Rahim Khan, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry of Commerce; Major General Md. Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, Chairman of the Tea Board; AHM Ahsan, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Competition Commission; and Ayesha Akter, Additional Secretary (FTA). The event concluded with a special prayer seeking the eternal peace of his soul.