Eminent journalist and former lawmaker AN Mahfuza Khatun, popularly known as Baby Moudud, died yesterday at the capital’s United Hospital.
The 66-year-old veteran journalist had been suffering from cancer.
She was buried in her husband Hasan Ali's grave at Banani graveyard last night after two sessions of
Namaz-e-Janaza at Dhanmondi Eidgah Masjid and the National Press Club premises.
President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury expressed their deep shock at Baby Moudud’s death.
In his condolence massage, President Abdul Hamid said: “I'm deeply shocked at the death of Baby Maudud...the country has lost an honest, brave and dedicated journalist.”
The premier, in a condolence message, recalled Baby's valuable contribution to journalism and politics.
She said: “The nation has lost a dedicated journalist and writer, and I have lost one of my long-time beloved friends.” Sheikh Hasina and Baby has been friends since university.
The premier also remembered with gratitude Baby’s role in editing the book “Asamapta Atmajibonee” [Unfinished Memoir] authored by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Hasina prayed for the eternal peace for the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.
Later, Hasina visited United Hospital to see the body. She stood beside Baby’s body for some time as a token of respect to the memory of the renowned journalist and writer.
The premier talked to the deceased's family members and consoled them.
Baby Moudud, social affairs
editor of online news portal bdnews24.com, left behind two sons and a host of relatives and well-wishers to mourn her death.
She was born on June 23, 1948 in Kolkata. After completing her Masters’ degree from Dhaka University, she got involved in journalism. She has worked for various news media, including the daily Sangbad, Ittefaq, BBC, and weekly Bichitra.