TDS Desk:

One of the prominent sector commanders of the Liberation War, retired Major General KM Shafiullah, passed away at 8:45am on Sunday while receiving treatment at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka. He was 91 years old.

His personal assistant, Ziaur Rahman Moni, confirmed the news.

KM Shafiullah had been suffering from various ailments, including diabetes, hypertension, thyroid complications, fatty liver, and dementia. His namaj-e-janaza will be held at two locations: the first after Zohr prayer at Abdul Hamid High School grounds in Rupganj of Narayanganj, and the second after Asr prayer at the Central Mosque of the Army Headquarters.

Born on 2 September 1934 in Rupganj of Narayanganj, KM Shafiullah held significant roles during the Liberation War. As the second-in-command of the 2nd East Bengal Regiment in Joydebpur, he later became the commander of Sector 3 during the war. He led the ‘S Force’ when the regular army brigades were formed and was honoured with the title of “Bir Uttom” for his contributions.

After independence, KM Shafiullah served as Chief of Army Staff from 1972 to 1975. Following his military service, he represented Bangladesh as an ambassador in several countries, including Malaysia, Canada, Sweden, and England. He continued as an ambassador from 1976 to 1991, contributing 16 years to diplomacy.

In 1995, KM Shafiullah joined the Awami League and was elected as a Member of Parliament in 1996 under the party’s banner.