Faham's Heartfelt Post On Mirza Fakhrul

Faham Abdus Salam, widely known for his analytical and articulate commentaries on state and societal affairs on social media, has shared a candid Facebook post reflecting on his father-in-law Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir following his election as the 23rd President of Bangladesh.

Reflecting on their 22-year relationship, Faham Abdus Salam wrote in his congratulatory message, "I have known him closely for 22 years. I have seen only one other person as responsible as him in my life: my Cadet College teacher, Sir Chhadik. Those who know Sir Chhadik will understand how high this standard is."

He further added, "Mr. Alamgir has essentially played one core role throughout his life—that of a responsible elder brother. He is the kind of elder brother who, upon receiving 6 chocolates for 7 siblings, would happily distribute all 6 to his brothers and sisters without keeping any for himself. Taking care of his family gives him his primary satisfaction. He can never step out of this role of an elder brother carrying immense responsibilities."

Highlighting his personal work ethic, Faham wrote, "There is an old-world value—especially popular in Western culture: 'Make yourself useful'. This trait defines him. He simply cannot sit idle. Even while on vacation in Canberra, he would start sweeping the house because he cannot remain inactive. I believe this quality, along with his gentle demeanor, is the primary key to his success."

Recalling Mirza Fakhrul's devotion to party leader Begum Khaleda Zia and the democratic cause, he wrote, "After August 5, while we were alone in Singapore, he told me man-to-man, 'My life’s work is done—I have brought Madam out. If elections are held, the nation will transition into democracy. I am satisfied.' On numerous occasions, he expressed regret over not being able to free Madam earlier, taking it as a personal failure. In our family, Madam’s stature is not just that of a political leader. It is rare in Bangladesh for any political leader to have a loyal companion like Mirza Fakhrul, who prioritizes the leader in both good and bad times. I am unsure if Tareq Rahman will find such a loyal companion."

Touching upon his reputation within the political arena, Faham noted, "Many young BNP activists refer to Mirza Fakhrul as the 'Secretary General of Bangladesh'. There is truth in this statement—he truly sees Bangladesh before BNP. You may not agree with his political stance, but he genuinely practices what he believes. While practicing high-level democracy is challenging in our society, he is a man who has strived for it his whole life."

Regarding his transition to the Presidency, Faham expressed mixed feelings, writing, "His election as President brings me both joy and sorrow. Joy because the country needs a guardian-like figure as President, and the right person has been chosen. Sadness because BNP immensely needs a leader who puts party and national interests above self-interest. Replacing someone like him is difficult, and the confinement of Bangabhaban might feel suffocating for an active person like him."

Concluding his post, Faham highlighted the widespread support received across political lines, writing, "Many people, including Awami League supporters, extended their congratulations. I don't recall any major political figure receiving such genuine bipartisan affection in my lifetime. He is not a aggressive politician, nor does he possess vast wealth or internal factions. To those who believe honest people have no place in politics, I would say in Shakib Khan's style: 'You are wrong—totally wrong!' There is a place; you just need to have the stamina."

//DBTech/FBP/MIS//