Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 12, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Swechasebak Dal today organized a doa mahfil marking the 57th birth anniversary of Arafat Rahman Koko, younger son of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. The prayers were held beside Koko's grave at Banani graveyard in the capital.

Swechasebak Dal Central President S M Jilani, General Secretary and State Minister Rajib Ahsan, Organizing Secretary Nazmul Hasan, and leaders and activists from the central and various levels of the organization were present at the event.

The participants prayed for the eternal peace and forgiveness of Koko's soul. They also offered prayers for Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and other deceased leaders and activists of the party.

Leaders and activists recalled Koko's life and contributions and sought prayers from people across the country for the forgiveness of his soul.

Arafat Rahman Koko, younger brother of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, was born on August 12, 1969. He was widely described as a simple and introverted person who preferred to remain away from the limelight despite his contributions to Bangladesh's sports sector.

Koko served on the Bangladesh Cricket Board from 2002 to 2005. During his tenure, he worked to keep cricket free from political influence and played a role in promoting the multifaceted development of the country's sports arena.