Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, also known as Bangabandhu (“Friend of Bengal”), was the first President of Bangladesh. He was born on March 17, 1920, in Tungipara, East Bengal, British India (now Bangladesh).
Rahman came from a humble background. His father was a farmer and his mother was a housewife. He attended Gopalganj Missionary School and Islamia College in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India. After graduating, he became involved in politics and joined the All India Muslim League, the main political party representing Muslims in India during the British Raj.
In 1947, after the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan, Rahman moved to East Bengal. He became a member of the Pakistan Constituent Assembly and served as a minister in the provincial government.
In the 1950s, Rahman became increasingly critical of the Pakistani government’s policies toward East Bengal. He led a movement for greater autonomy for the province and was jailed several times. In 1970, Rahman’s Awami League party won a majority of seats in the Pakistani National Assembly, but the Pakistani military refused to hand over power. This led to the Bangladesh Liberation War, which lasted for nine months and resulted in the independence of Bangladesh.
Rahman became the first President of Bangladesh in 1971. He faced many challenges during his presidency, including a civil war, a famine, and a global oil crisis. However, he also made significant progress in rebuilding the country and laying the foundation for its future development.
Rahman’s achievements include:
- Leading the Bangladesh Liberation War to victory
- Establishing a democratic government in Bangladesh
- Implementing a land reform program
- Nationalizing several industries
- Expanding access to education and healthcare
Rahman was assassinated in a military coup in 1975. He is remembered as a great leader and a national hero in Bangladesh.
Emblem of Bangladesh
To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Bahrain, Bahamas and Azerbaijan. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.
The official residence and symbol of the Bangladesh President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Bangladesh’s History
Below is a list of 10 of the most popular presidents in Bangladesh’s history:
- Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
- Ziaur Rahman
- Hussain Muhammad Ershad
- Abdul Hamid
- Shahabuddin Ahmed
- A.Q.M. Badruddoza Chowdhury
- Mohammad Rafiqul Islam
- Mohammad Sadik
- Abdur Rahman Biswas
- Justice Abu Sayeed Chowdhury
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, also known as Bangabandhu (Friend of Bengal), was the first President of independent Bangladesh. He played a crucial role in the country’s struggle for independence from Pakistan and is widely considered the father of the nation.
Ziaur Rahman was a military officer who became the President of Bangladesh. He introduced the concept of “Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim” (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful) as the national motto and worked towards economic development and political stability.
Hussain Muhammad Ershad came to power through a military coup and served as President for nearly a decade. He implemented a number of reforms, including decentralization of power and a shift towards a market-oriented economy.
Abdul Hamid is the current President of Bangladesh, serving in the role since 2013. He has a long history of political involvement and has held various positions in the government before assuming the presidency.
Shahabuddin Ahmed served as President from 1996 to 2001. He was known for his efforts to promote democracy and his initiatives to combat corruption in the country.
A.Q.M. Badruddoza Chowdhury held the presidency for a short period of time from 2001 to 2002. He played a significant role in the establishment of diplomatic ties with various countries during his tenure.
Mohammad Rafiqul Islam served as President from 1977 to 1981. He focused on improving the agricultural sector and promoting self-sufficiency in food production.
Mohammad Sadik served as the President of Bangladesh from 1975 to 1977. He was known for his efforts to strengthen the bond between India and Bangladesh.
Abdur Rahman Biswas served as the President from 1991 to 1996. During his tenure, he emphasized promoting national unity and stability in the country.
Justice Abu Sayeed Chowdhury served as Acting President of Bangladesh in 2001. He played a crucial role in ensuring a peaceful transition of power after the resignation of the previous President.
