Kamal Uddin Siddiqui, a former principal secretary and freedom fighter, passed away on November 3 in Dhaka due to age-related complications at the age of 80. Born in 1945 in Midnapore, British India, to Nazir Ullah and Anowara Begum of greater Comilla, Kamal had a career dedicated to public service and academia.
In 1968, he entered the Civil Service of Pakistan and held various roles before becoming a key figure during the Liberation War as the sub-divisional officer of Narail. He played a pivotal role in declaring Narail independent and joined the wartime government under Prime Minister Tajuddin Ahmad, actively participating in combat.
Following the independence of Bangladesh, Kamal continued his service in the civil sector, representing the government in international capacities and holding significant positions such as secretary, cabinet secretary, and principal secretary to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia during the periods of 1991–1994 and 2001–2006. Additionally, he served as the rector of the Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre (BPATC) and was a member of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child.
Throughout his career, Kamal authored over 30 books and numerous articles focusing on governance, development, and social concerns. He also shared his knowledge through teaching engagements at various universities in Bangladesh and overseas.
Kamal Uddin Siddiqui was laid to rest at the Shaheed Buddhijibi Graveyard in Mirpur. He is survived by his wife, Chhabi Siddiqui; children, Ashraf Siddiqui, Shahana Siddiqui, and Ashfaque Siddiqui; daughters-in-law, Shakila Ali and Terry Kim; as well as five grandchildren and four siblings.