Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday participated in a doa mahfil and Islamic discussion to commemorate the 42nd death anniversary of former Bangladesh Navy chief Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan, seeking eternal peace for his departed soul.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the programme was organized by Mahbub Ali’s family and held at Mahbub Bhaban in Dhanmondi after Maghrib prayers. The event commenced with Quran Khwani and the recitation of Durood Sharif, followed by addresses from several prominent Islamic scholars. These scholars highlighted the former Navy chief’s integrity, distinguished public service, and his significant contributions to the nation. Mahbub Ali was also the father-in-law of the Prime Minister.

Family members of Mahbub Ali, including his wife Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, daughters Shahina Khan Zaman and Dr. Zubaida Rahman, granddaughter Barrister Zaima Rahman, and other close relatives, were present at the gathering. The event also saw the attendance of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s younger brother Shamim Iskander, along with Syed Shafiuzzaman, the husband of Mahbub Ali’s eldest daughter, and other relatives.

The doa mahfil, conducted under a canopy in the courtyard of Mahbub Bhaban, was attended by notable figures such as acting Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal, Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, Commerce, Industries, Jute and Textiles Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni, as well as MPs, senior military and civil officials, and BNP leaders and activists.

Earlier in the day, Mahbub Ali’s family members visited his grave at Banani Military Graveyard to offer prayers. The Bangladesh Navy and several other organizations also honored his memory by placing wreaths at his grave.

Mahbub Ali held the position of chief of the Bangladesh Navy in 1979 and later served as a minister in the government of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He passed away on August 6, 1984, and was interred at the Banani Military Graveyard.