The Immortal Warrior of Sacrifice and Ideals: Abdul Gafur Member, the Soul of Karnaphuli BNP

Md. Kamal Uddin    |    ০৮:৫৫ পিএম, ২০২৫-১০-২০

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is not merely a political organization—it is an ideal, a consciousness. Founded by the martyred President Ziaur Rahman, the party has, since its inception, stood as a guardian of the people’s rights, freedom, and sovereignty. Over time, many leaders have come and gone, yet a few have remained steadfast—men whose devotion, honesty, and unyielding belief have kept the spirit of the party alive. The soil of Karnaphuli proudly holds one such man—Abdul Gafur Member, a true people’s leader, inspired by Ziaur Rahman’s ideals, devoted to Begum Khaleda Zia’s leadership, and guided by the vision of Tarique Rahman.

Responding to Zia’s Call: The Beginning of a Journey

In 1979, when Bangladesh’s politics was clouded by confusion and uncertainty, President Ziaur Rahman emerged as a beacon of hope. Answering his call, a young Abdul Gafur joined the BNP, driven by faith that true independence and democracy could only be protected under the banner of this party. His politics was rooted not in ambition or personal gain, but in the simple desire to serve the people and bring smiles to their faces.

A Tireless Soldier of Grassroots Politics

Gafur Member built his political life on a simple philosophy—the foundation of politics is the people. As a member of the South District BNP, Joint Convener of the Karnaphuli Upazila BNP, and three-term President of the Char Lakshya Union BNP, he strengthened the party from the grassroots. Under his leadership, the Union BNP became a model of unity and strength, where the bond among leaders and workers felt like family.

As an elected representative, serving three consecutive terms as UP Member, Acting Chairman, and Panel Chairman, Gafur Member proved himself to be not just a politician, but a servant of the people. Roads, bridges, schools, mosques, electricity—his contributions touch every corner of rural development. The suffering of the common people was his own pain.

A Fearless Fighter in Times of Adversity

Politics is synonymous with struggle—and few can endure its storms. Abdul Gafur Member is one of those rare leaders who never retreated in the face of persecution. During the Awami League regime, he was targeted with at least a dozen false cases, endured imprisonment, exile, and constant harassment. Yet, he never betrayed his party, never spoke against his leaders. To him, BNP was not just a political entity—it was a mission.

Even in the darkest times, he kept the organization alive and gave courage to its workers. His presence in every rally and procession across Karnaphuli became a symbol of inspiration.

A Frontline Soldier in the Movement for Khaleda Zia’s Release

When BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia was unjustly imprisoned, many leaders chose silence. But not Gafur Member. He stood firmly on the frontlines, organizing protests and mobilizing workers across Karnaphuli and its surrounding unions. Under his leadership, the flame of resistance burned bright, inspiring countless activists to return to the field.

As one local leader once said, “When Gafur Member steps onto the field, fear disappears.” That single sentence captures his entire political identity.

Carrying Forward Tarique Rahman’s Vision

Tarique Rahman’s 31-point reform agenda aims to rebuild BNP into a modern, organized political force. Among those tirelessly implementing this vision at the grassroots, Abdul Gafur Member stands out. He holds regular meetings, monitors the execution of party programs, and inspires the younger generation with BNP’s nationalist ideals. His goal is clear—to plant the seeds of Zia’s nationalism in the hearts of the youth, so that they carry forward the values of freedom and democracy into the future.

Beloved by the People, Trusted by All

Gafur Member’s popularity is not written on paper—it lives in people’s hearts. When he walks through the streets, people call him by name; when he speaks, his comrades listen with respect. His voice carries conviction, his heart radiates sacrifice. To the people of Karnaphuli, he is not just a political leader, but a guardian figure.

Thus, when discussions arise about reorganizing the Karnaphuli BNP, the grassroots have one united demand—“Give the leadership to Gafur Member.”
This is not the voice of a faction, but the collective will of the people who have stood by the party through thick and thin.

Now Is the Time to Honor the True Soldiers of the Party

A political party becomes strong only when it recognizes and honors its selfless workers—those who have carried its flag through the storms. Abdul Gafur Member is one such soldier who has dedicated the best years of his life to the cause of BNP. Entrusting him with the leadership of the Karnaphuli BNP is not only a timely and just decision—it is an act of respect toward the ideals of Ziaur Rahman, loyalty to Begum Khaleda Zia, and a commitment to implementing Tarique Rahman’s vision.

Today, the BNP stands at a crossroads, battling oppression, false cases, and state persecution. Among those who continue to fight on the streets for democracy and justice, Abdul Gafur Member remains a symbol of courage and conviction—a true torchbearer of nationalistic ideals.

He is not merely a leader—he is a movement, a symbol of sacrifice, and a living embodiment of the BNP spirit.

The voice of the grassroots is clear and united today:
“Abdul Gafur Member is the rightful leader for Karnaphuli BNP.”