Arafat Rahman Koko -Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Aug 12, 2026 (BSS) - People from all walks of life today paid their respects to Arafat Rahman Koko, the younger son of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia marking his 57th birth anniversary. 

Individuals and organizations were seen offering floral tributes, prayers, and reciting Surah Fatiha at his grave at the Banani Graveyard from morning onwards. 

In the morning, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi led prayers on behalf of the party.

BNP's Sports Affairs Secretary and State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque, Dhaka Mohanagar North BNP Member Secretary Mostafa Zaman, BNP’s lawmaker Jahangir, Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Kaiyum Chowdhury, and leaders from the party's affiliated and associated organizations were present during this time. 

Later, leaders and activists of Jubo Dal paid their respects to Koko. At that time, prayers and supplications were offered for the salvation of his soul.

Jubo Dal Central General Secretary Mohammad Nurul Islam Nayan, Organizational Secretary Kamruzzaman Jewel, Dhaka Mohanagar North Jubo Dal Convener Sharif Uddin Jewel, and Member Secretary Sajjadul Miraj, along with central and metropolitan leaders of the party were present. 

Swechchhasebak Dal also organized prayers and supplications by the grave. Central President S.M. Jilani, General Secretary and State Minister Rajib Ahsan, Organizational Secretary Nazmul Hasan, and leaders and activists from central and various levels took part. 

During the prayers, forgiveness was sought for the departed soul of Arafat Rahman Koko. Prayers were also offered for BNP founder and Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and other deceased leaders and activists.

The party leaders and activists recalled Koko's memories and asked the nation to pray for his soul's peace. Leaders and activists from various levels of the party attended the event.

Meanwhile, under the leadership of Central Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib, student leaders and activists paid floral tributes at Koko's grave. Later, Surah Fatiha and special prayers were offered for his departed soul.

In those prayers, forgiveness was sought for Koko, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and good health and longevity were prayed for BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

Earlier, BCB directors and officials placed a floral wreath at the grave of the late Arafat Rahman. Later, the BCB arranged a prayer gathering to honour his memory.

Additionally, from the morning, people from various professions were seen paying their respects individually.

Arafat Rahman Koko, younger brother of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, was born on August 12, 1969. Known for his simple and introverted lifestyle, he largely remained away from the limelight despite making significant contributions to Bangladesh's sports sector.

During his tenure with the Bangladesh Cricket Board from 2002 to 2005, Koko played a significant role in taking initiatives to keep cricket free from political influence and contributed to the multifaceted development of the country's sports sector.