‘We lost a role model of women empowerment’
The country has lost a champion of women's empowerment with the demise of Rokia Afzal Rahman, chairperson of Mediaworld Ltd, the owner company of The Daily Star.
Eminent citizens and head of organisations said Rokia was an integral actor in advancing the role of women in business and a stalwart supporter of free media.
Rokia Afzal Rahman, 82, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Mt Elizabeth Novena Hospital in Singapore, where she was undergoing treatment.
Prime Minister's Private Sector Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman expressed profound shock and sorrow at her death.
TIB's Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman in a statement said her death caused irreparable loss to the country. "She will be remembered as an inspiration because of her hard work and patriotism."
Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a statement, said, "We are deeply saddened at the passing away of Rokia Afzal Rahman. BWCCI has lost a dear friend and comrade."
Management and Resources Development Initiative said Rokia will be remembered for her pioneering role in female entrepreneurship.
Business Initiative Leading Development in a press release said Rokia was instrumental in the development of business, trade and economy of the country.
Monowara Hakim Ali, president of Chittagong Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, "She will remain with us as a symbol of female entrepreneurship."
On behalf of Natundhara Bangladesh, Chairman Momin Mehedi in a statement said Rokia was the bravest woman of the century.
Brac also expressed their condolences and said Rokia worked relentlessly for 20 years for the development of female entrepreneurs.
Manzoor Ahmed, professor emeritus of Brac University; Rubana Huq, managing director of Mohammadi Group and vice chancellor of Asian University for Women; Md Saiful Islam, president of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Fazlul Hoque, former president of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association; Angela Gomes, founder executive director of Banchte Shekha NGO, also expressed their condolences.
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