Tributes pour in for Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury

An outpouring of condolences has flooded social media in response to the death of Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury, the founder of Gonoshasthaya Kendra and a freedom fighter, who breathed his last aged 81 at Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital late Tuesday.

Politicians, regardless of party affiliation, also fondly remembered Dr Zafrullah.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed her deepest condolences to the bereaved family members. 

She said Dr Zafrullah's contributions to the Liberation War, the pharmaceutical industry and public health would not be forgotten.

Gono Songhoti Andolon Chief Convener Zonayed Saki, who was at the hospital, described the late public health activist as a “sincere friend of the people and a patriot.”

Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader in a statement said Dr Zafrullah had been a real hero. 

“His love for his country was infinite. In his youth, he took part in the Liberation War after taking guerilla training. He saved the lives of many injured freedom fighters by establishing Bangladesh Field Hospital.”

Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, who is in Europe, recalled the contributions made by the late physician to ensure affordable healthcare for the poor.

Leaders of the pro-BNP 12-party alliance said Dr Zafrullah's death was an irreparable loss for Bangladesh and democracy.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh National Awami Party Chairman Jebel Rahman Ghaani and Secretary General M Golam Mostafa Bhuiyan said it was tragic that in the last moments of his life, he had to suffer neglect and humiliation from the “top leadership of a major political party” in the fight to establish democracy.

Zafrullah was transported to Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, after becoming dangerously ill on April 5.

A medical board comprised of notable physicians was established on April 7 for his treatment.

He was put on life support on Monday after his condition deteriorated.

The noted physician had also been politically active for the past few years, although he was relatively inactive in politics this year.

He leaves behind his wife, son, daughter and scores of well-wishers.