KM Shafiullah, Bangladesh’s first army chief and a distinguished commander during the 1971 Liberation War, has passed away.
He breathed his last at 8:45am on Sunday (26 January), while undergoing treatment at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka.
Shafiullah had been suffering from multiple health complications, including diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, fatty liver, and dementia, for an extended period.
Born on 2 September 1934 in Rupganj, Narayanganj, Shafiullah played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
In 1971, he was the second-in-command of the 2nd East Bengal Regiment in Joydebpur.
At the onset of the Liberation War, he took charge as the commander of Sector 3.
Later, when three regular army brigades—known as "Forces"—were formed, he was appointed the leader of "S Force".
In recognition of his valour and contributions to the war, he was honoured with the "Bir Uttam" title.
Following Bangladesh’s independence, Shafiullah served as the Chief of Army Staff from 1972 to 1975.
His career later extended into diplomacy, representing Bangladesh as an ambassador in Malaysia, Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
Upon returning to Bangladesh in 1991, he was placed in the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) position for a year.
He subsequently opted for voluntary retirement the following year.
Chief Adviser Dr Yunus expressed his condolences over the passing away of SK Shafiullah.