Chittagong residents will forever remember Begum Roji Kabir’s contribution to the welfare of the people – Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain

In recognition of her outstanding contribution to democracy, human rights and public service, the name of the Strand Road in Chittagong city has been changed to ‘Begum Roji Kabir Road’. The nameplate of the road was unveiled and officially inaugurated by Chittagong City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain at a program organized by Chittagong City Corporation on Monday.
Speaking as the chief guest at the program, Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said, “A three-time elected woman member of parliament, the ‘Fire Girl’ of Chittagong and a veteran political figure, Begum Roji Kabir was a leader of the people. Her contribution to the establishment of democracy, protection of human rights and the welfare of the common people will remain in the hearts of the people of Chittagong forever.”
The Mayor said that Begum Roji Kabir was respected by everyone for her uncompromising leadership, courage and humanitarian qualities from the beginning of her political career. From the anti-dictatorship movement to the restoration of democracy, he has led from the front lines in every struggle to restore democracy. The courage and devotion he showed by standing by the leaders and workers of the party during difficult times will be exemplary for the new generation.
Dr. Shahadat Hossain recalled that he received the affection and guidance of Begum Rozi Kabir since his student days. He said, “I have seen her closely since I joined Chhatra Dal politics in Medical College. She was always active on the streets during the difficult times of the opposition movement. She played an important role in the implementation of various political programs of national leader Begum Khaleda Zia and in critical moments.”
He also said, “For him, politics was not a matter of power; it was a great vow to serve the people. In all areas, be it solving the problems of the common people, education, medical treatment or social development, he was a refuge for the people. Working for the welfare of the people from morning till night was the main goal of his life.”
The mayor said, “We may not have been able to properly evaluate the contribution of such a popular leader. However, to keep her memory eternal, we are happy to name one of the most important roads in the city after her. This is not just the naming of a road, but an expression of respect and gratitude of the people of Chittagong for her lifelong service to the people.” He prayed for the eternal peace of the soul of the late Begum Rozi Kabir and announced the official inauguration of ‘Begum Rozi Kabir Road’. Also present at the time were Chittagong City Corporation Chief Engineer Anisur Rahman, Superintending Engineer Md. Jasim Uddin, Mohammad Salauddin, Mashiul Alam Swapan, former councilors Safraj Quader Russell and Didarul Alam Lavu. In addition, late Begum Rozi Kabir’s sons Yasin Mabud and Engineer Yasir A. Mabud, daughter Dr. Farah Naz Mabud, son-in-law Md. Tarikuzzaman, daughter-in-law Shirin Nuzhat and Dr. Suborna Rahman and other family members and grandchildren were present at the event. It is worth noting that as a three-time elected woman member of parliament, Begum Rozi Kabir (1951–2024) has made significant contributions to democracy, human rights, women’s development and social service activities in her long political career. To commemorate her active life, struggle and public service activities, the city’s historic and busiest Strand Road has been renamed ‘Begum Rozi Kabir Road’.