Today, Bangladesh commemorates the 100th birth anniversary of Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad, the country’s first prime minister and one of the most revered figures in its history.
Born on July 23, 1925, in Dardaria village of Kapasia upazila in Gazipur, Tajuddin remains a symbol of principled leadership and patriotic sacrifice.
A key figure in formation of Awami League in 1949, Tajuddin played a significant role in forming the six-point demand in 1966. He became the general secretary of AL in the year.
His strategic leadership helped secure the party’s landslide victory in the 1970 general elections, which played a crucial role in laying the foundation for the birth of Bangladesh.
When Sheikh Mujib was arrested and taken to West Pakistan in March 1971, it was Tajuddin who rose to the occasion.
He led the formation of the provisional government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in exile in India, steering the nation through the war for liberation.
After returning to a newly independent Bangladesh on December 22, 1971, Tajuddin was appointed Minister of Finance and Planning in the country’s first cabinet.
He played an instrumental role in drafting the Constitution of Bangladesh and setting the economic direction of the nascent state. Despite his contributions, in 1974, he was removed from his ministerial post amid growing internal rifts.
Following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975, Tajuddin was placed under house arrest and later imprisoned.
On November 3, 1975 — a date now observed as Jail Killing Day — Tajuddin Ahmad was brutally murdered inside Dhaka Central Jail, along with three other national leaders: Syed Nazrul Islam, AHM Qamaruzzaman, and M Mansur Ali.
To this day, Tajuddin Ahmad is remembered as one of the most principled and influential statesmen in Bangladesh’s history. His leadership during the Liberation War, his role in shaping the economy and constitution, and his steadfast commitment to democratic ideals have earned him enduring respect across generations.
He is survived by his daughters Sharmin Ahmad, Simeen Hussain Rimi, Mahjabin Ahmad, and his son Tanjim Ahmad Sohel Taj — all of whom continue to honor his legacy through public service and advocacy.
Commemorative events are being held across the country today to pay tribute to this extraordinary leader whose legacy continues to inspire a nation.