The 57th birth anniversary of Arafat Rahman Koko, younger son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, is being observed on Wednesday.
Born on 12 August 1969 at Cumilla Cantonment (then spelled Comilla), Koko was best known for his contributions to business and sports rather than politics, despite his prominent political lineage.
He played a pivotal role in the development and organisation of cricket in Bangladesh, serving as Chairman of the Game Development Committee of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
His long involvement with the sport focused on improving infrastructure and nurturing player development.
To mark the occasion, the Jatiyatabadi Krira Dal has organised several programmes, including a visit to his grave on Wednesday morning followed by a discussion meeting on his life and contributions to national sports.
Organisers said the events aim to highlight Koko’s role in the sporting arena to the younger generation.
State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Huq is expected to attend the commemorative programme as chief guest.
In addition, the official activities of the Jatiyatabadi Krira Dal’s central office in Paltan are scheduled to formally commence as part of the August 12 observances.
Arafat Rahman Koko died on 24 January 2015 following a cardiac arrest while undergoing medical treatment in Malaysia. His remains were later brought back to Bangladesh and laid to rest at Banani Cemetery in Dhaka.
Each year, BNP, its affiliated organisations, and various sports bodies observe his birth and death anniversaries with prayer sessions and grave visitations, seeking eternal peace for his soul and honouring his legacy in sports.
