M Saifur Rahman's legacy for Sylhet is unforgettable but for the Nation is Immortal

By Shofi Ahmed

The actors, who play the lead role, also leave the stage. They also die. However, when their death is unexpected and a tragic one, the scene becomes an even more dramatic and touches the heart and soul of its audience. This is regular class acts that brisk at the theatre, though hundreds of years may have passed in between, but once in a blue moon, it can be spotted live on the ground and when that physically happens to a tribe then a nation finds a true legend was born amongst them!

Bangladesh may be economically a developing country but it enjoyed, such a memorable performance from one of its son, the late Finance Minister, Mr Saifur Rahman. Who unexpectedly died on September 5, 2009 at the age of 77 in a road traffic accident in broad daylight, on a road, which epitomises his economic achievements.

The economic genius, Mr Rahman painstakingly crafted the economic mosaic of Bangladesh and built a sustainable financial infrastructure. He has left an economic model for the nation, which the future generation can build on and continue to improve the quality of life of the people in Bangladesh. We can all be proud of Mr Rahman’s, notably, economic vision, a legacy, which will be remembered by the future generations.

However, while I was writing this, I saw Dr Mohammad Yunus on my TV screen, the country's only Noble Laureate economist, reflecting on the work and achievements of Mr Rahman. He openly proclaimed the fact that Mr Rahman laid the economic foundation of Bangladesh on which we can continue to develop and build on to make Bangladesh a more phosphorous country. This is his true identity,

His work in Sylhet is clear for all to see and his achievements in Sylhet and in Bangladesh generally will be remembered for many years to come but Mr Rahman’s international contribution and his global stature is also second to none. He played a leading role in the World Bank and IMF. In particular, his advice and guidance was valued and respected often guided them to achieve new dimensions.

Mr Rahman may have left us and may Allah bless his soul but his legacy will remain immortal and although, he may not have won a Noble prize, but we can be proud of the fact that he was equal amongst equals on the International stage. He has always strived to give a positive image of Bangladesh on the International arena.

With him one could hardly draw an end. He would have a cup of tea for other nations that has been well received and being recognized. His financial vision was so widespread that it princely mapped the world. Thus while he had at his disposal as much as a full dozen of budgets presented to his nation, he could spare time for the wider world as well.

The international community respected him as a politician and recognised and valued his economic contribution and his vision. They stood by him even at his death and this was evident from the long lines of mourners waiting to sign the book of condolences, which was led by the American Ambassador, the British High Commissioner and other world diplomats in Bangladesh. The Indian Premier Mon Mohon Singh was also deeply touched by his death.

However, our prime minister, Sheikh Hasina and her government was unmoved and remained officially silent about the death of Mr Rahman. That has to progress yet a long distance to catch up with the civilized world. Sheikh Hasina has successfully put through this notion to the nation and the international community. We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of a great son of Bangladesh his death has united us and the loss was felt by us all.