Biography of Rakibul Islam Bakul

Introduction

Alhaj Rakibul Islam Bakul- the guiding force of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the Khulna region, a symbol of resilient leadership, and a beloved figure among the masses. He is not merely a politician but also a visionary, an idealist, and a leader deeply rooted in grassroots connections. His life story is both a tale of courage and ideals, as well as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the people.

Childhood and Family Inspiration

Rakibul Islam Bakul was born in Khalishpur, Khulna, and grew up amidst the vibrance, struggles, and realities of ordinary life.

  • His father, Sirajul Islam, was a valiant freedom fighter whose patriotism, ideals, and sacrifices for the country deeply inspired Bakul from an early age.
  • Growing up in a family environment filled with patriotism, honesty, and social responsibility, Bakul built a strong foundation that would later drive his political journey.

Education

From the very beginning, Bakul was a diligent and meritorious student.

  • He received his primary education at Rotary School.
  • Completed his secondary education at Khalishpur Secondary School.
  • Finished higher secondary education at Khulna BL College.
  • In 1985, he secured his place in the merit list of the Dhaka University entrance examination and enrolled in the Department of Physics- a bright reflection of his intellect and academic excellence.

Student Politics and Early Leadership

Upon joining Dhaka University, he became actively involved in politics.

  • He began his political journey as a worker of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (BNP’s student wing) at Fazlul Huq Muslim Hall.
  • Gradually, he rose through the ranks, holding key positions:
    1. Vice President, Hall Committee (1986-87)
    2. Publicity Secretary, Dhaka University Chhatra Dal (1988-89)
    3. General Secretary, Fazlul Huq Hall Chhatra Dal (1990-91), elected through the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election

Through these roles, he proved that leadership is not only about holding positions but also about earning the trust and love of fellow activists.

Rise in Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal

His long journey in student politics prepared him for national leadership.

  • Twice elected as Vice President of the Central Executive Committee of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (1997-98, 1998-99).
  • Played a significant role in mobilizing activists, strengthening the organization, and leading successful movements.

Entry into National Politics

Recognizing his leadership, on January 8, 2023, BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman appointed him as Secretary for Student Affairs, BNP Central Executive Committee.

  • This position not only reflected his personal achievements but also symbolized the BNP top leadership’s trust in him.
  • Since then, Bakul has emerged as an active leader not only in student politics but also in national politics.

Constituency and Local Role

His political stronghold lies in Khulna-3 (parliamentary constituency no. 101), covering Khalishpur, Daulatpur, and Khan Jahan Ali police stations.

  • He contested the 11th National Parliamentary Elections from this constituency as a BNP candidate.
  • Served as a senior member of Khulna Metropolitan BNP.
  • Under his leadership, Khulna BNP became stronger, more united, and organizationally revitalized.

Struggles, Persecution, and Determined Stance

The political life of Rakibul Islam Bakul has never been easy.

  • He has repeatedly endured state repression, harassment, and false cases.
  • In March 2024, he was arrested under a fabricated case by the ruling Awami League government but later secured bail from the country’s Supreme Court.
  • On August 5, 2024- the day before the fall of the Awami League government- his home in Khulna was attacked by ruling-party-backed terrorists, who looted, vandalized, and set it on fire.

Yet, such persecutions only strengthened his resolve to stand firmly beside the people.

Career and Contributions

  1. Organizational Reconstruction and Strengthening:
    • Took the lead in reorganizing Khulna BNP after years of suppression and state harassment.
    • Revitalized grassroots-level units by forming committees and creating active cadres.
    • Unified a fragmented party by showing that true leadership is built on public trust and activists’ confidence.
  2. Engaging the Youth in Politics:
    • Strongly believes that without youth participation, no political movement can sustain itself.
    • Regularly organized meetings, workshops, and both online and offline programs to engage students and young people.
    • Inspired many young activists in Khulna to join politics with ideals and vision.
  3. Social and Humanitarian Initiatives:
    • Actively involved in community service alongside politics.
    • Provided scholarships, books, and educational materials to underprivileged students.
    • Assisted the sick and needy with medical aid, notably playing a direct role in distributing food and medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Stood by victims during natural disasters such as cyclones and floods, leading relief and rehabilitation efforts.
  4. Political Leadership and Public Trust:
    • Gained the confidence of BNP leadership through honesty, courage, and sacrifice.
    • Widely respected in Khulna as a humble, fearless, and transparent leader who prioritizes people’s rights over personal gain.
    • Under his leadership, Khulna BNP has once again become active in movements and protests, playing a strong role in national democratic struggles.

Vision and Future Plans

  1. Restoration of Democracy:
    • Ensuring free, fair, and participatory elections to restore people’s voting rights.
    • Reforming democratic institutions (Parliament, Election Commission, Judiciary) to ensure independence and accountability.
    • Rejecting authoritarianism and prioritizing people’s voices in governance.
  2. Building a Just Society:
    • Envisions a state where the rule of law applies equally to all.
    • Ensuring transparency and accountability in the judiciary so that justice is delivered without political or financial influence.
    • Protecting civil liberties by ending false cases and repressive politics.
  3. Empowering the Youth:
    • Committed to equipping youth with education, skills, and employment opportunities.
    • Promoting technology and modern education to prepare young people for global competition.
    • Reducing unemployment through entrepreneurship development, microcredit facilities, and training centers.
  4. Development of Khulna and Local Issues:
    • Reviving Khulna’s industrial hub by reopening closed factories and mills.
    • Implementing long-term plans to address river erosion, waterlogging, and environmental issues.
    • Strengthening the local economy by ensuring fair prices and productivity support for farmers and workers.
  5. Building a Prosperous Bangladesh:
    • Dreams of a modern, self-reliant, and dignified nation.
    • Guarantees freedom of expression, political rights, and human rights for all.
    • Envisions a society based on both economic growth and social justice, ensuring equal opportunities for every citizen.

In the Final Analysis, it can be said Today, Alhaj Rakibul Islam Bakul stands as a symbol of struggle, ideals, and fearless leadership not only for Khulna but for the entire nation. His goal remains clear: to build a democratic, just, and prosperous Bangladesh where every citizen can live with dignity.