Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday told Parliament that the late deputy speaker Fazle Rabbi Miah was very popular as he was elected MP repeatedly on public trust and confidence.

“He was elected MP time and again from his constituency. He even won the election changing his political party. It means that his personal popularity and acceptance to the people is incomparable,” she said.

The premier was speaking on a condolence motion on the death of Deputy Speaker Fazle Rabbi Miah MP, and former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and five former MPs.

Also read: Deputy Speaker Fazle Rabbi passes away in NY

She said Fazle Rabbi, as the deputy speaker, had performed his responsibilities with  competence.

Hasina, the leader of the House, said public trust and confidence is very important for any political leader. “He (Fazle Rabbi Miah) successfully had been able to gain these.”

She said he had always worked sincerely for the overall development of his constituents. “He was a dedicated soul and contributed to society in many ways. His death is a huge loss for us,” said the PM.

Hasina expressed profound sympathy to the bereaved family members including, Fazle Rabbi’s daughter.

Expressing deep shock at the death of former Japanese premier Shinzo Abe, the Bangladesh Prime Minister said the Japanese leader was a true friend of Bangladesh.

The five former MPs who died are freedom fighter M Abu Saleh (Ganoparishad member), Abbas Ali Mondal, Alhaj Md Karim Uddin Bharsha, Mohammad Shoab and Khurshed Ara Haque.

Also read: Deputy Speaker Fazle Rabbi’s mortal remains arrive in Dhaka

Later, the condolence motion was passed by a voice vote.