Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, revered as the father of the nation of Bangladesh, was an exceptional visionary leader who transcended conventional boundaries in the sphere of world politics.
Born on March 17, 1920, in Tungipara of Gopalganj, he dedicated the majority of his life to the noble cause of fighting for the rights and freedom of the people of Bangladesh.
Sheikh Mujib’s political journey began in the 1940s when he entered the arena of student politics in East Pakistan. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, becoming the general secretary of the East Pakistan Awami Muslim League (AML) in 1949, and eventually the president of the party in 1966.
Under his leadership, the AML emerged as the largest political force in East Pakistan, propelling Mujib to the forefront of the political arena.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Mujib emerged as the charismatic leader of the Bengali independence movement. He masterminded the historic six-point plan, which demanded greater autonomy for East Pakistan and equal treatment for Bengalis within the country. His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to the cause earned him widespread support, and in 1970, he led the Awami League to a historic victory in the general election, capturing 167 of the 169 seats in the East Pakistan Provincial Assembly.
Sheikh Mujib’s tireless efforts in advocating the rights of the Bengali people, coupled with his strategic vision, eventually led to the formation of the independent nation of Bangladesh in 1971, following a sanguinary war of independence. As the first prime minister of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu played a critical role in shaping the new nation's identity and direction, working tirelessly to establish Bangladesh as a democratic, secular, and socialist country, with a focus on promoting equality, justice, and freedom for all its citizens.
His contributions to world politics were remarkable and widely recognised. He was a passionate advocate for non-aligned nations, playing a pivotal role in establishing the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which aimed to promote the interests of developing countries in a world dominated by superpowers. He was also a strong supporter of the cause of Palestine, and his tireless efforts helped to bring the issue to the forefront of world politics.
Sheikh Mujib’s unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and human rights was a hallmark of his political career. He was a visionary leader who believed in the power of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts and promote peace.
He was a firm believer in the need for greater South Asian cooperation, and his efforts helped to lay the foundations for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which today serves as a platform for regional cooperation and integration in South Asia.
Bangabandhu’s contributions to the world of politics were not limited to his role as the prime minister of Bangladesh. He was also a tireless advocate for the rights of women and minorities, and his efforts helped establish Bangladesh as a leader in the field of women's empowerment. He was a strong supporter of the rights of the oppressed, and his commitment to these causes was reflected in his policies and programmes.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's legacy continues to shape world politics, and he is remembered as a champion of democracy, freedom, and human rights. His contributions to the cause of independence for Bangladesh are widely celebrated, and his work in promoting the rights of the Bengali people and his efforts to establish an independent Bangladesh have inspired generations of leaders, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.
Unfortunately, the father of the nation’s life and legacy were cut short when he and most of his family members were assassinated in a military coup on August 15, 1975. His death was a significant loss to Bangladesh and the world, and his legacy continues to inspire millions of people around the world.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a visionary leader who made a significant contribution to world politics. His leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to the cause of independence for Bangladesh will continue to inspire future generations. He remains a revered figure in Bangladesh and around the world, and his legacy will continue to shape world politics for years to come.
In conclusion, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib was a true friend of world politics, a visionary leader, and a tireless advocate for the rights of the oppressed. His contributions to the world of politics continue to be felt today, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. He will always be remembered as the father of the nation of Bangladesh and a true friend of world politics.
The writer is a student of the Department of Public Administration at Dhaka University
