BNP on Wednesday expressed deep shock over the death of Ganashasthaya Kendra (GSK) founder and freedom fighter Dr Zafrullah Chowdhury and said he was very forthright and vocal against misrule and corruption.

In a condolence message, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Dr Zafrullah, the hero of the great Liberation War, worked throughout his life for the welfare of the nation, the country, and its people, reports UNB.

The BNP leader recalled that Dr Zafrullah played the leading role in setting up a field hospital for freedom fighters and common people during the Liberation War and in establishing Gonoshasthaya Hospital for low-cost treatment after the independence.

He said the freedom fighter also played a significant role in education, health, women's development, and social reform and advancement.

"He came forward as a fearless soldier during all the crises of the state," Fakhrul said.

He also recalled that BNP founder and late president Ziaur Rahman awarded Dr Zafrullah Swadhinata Padak, the highest civilian award of Bangladesh, in recognition of his strong contribution to the welfare of the country and its people.

The BNP leader said Dr Zafrullah played an outstanding role in the movement to restore democracy and against the anti-democratic activities of the Awami government and the snatching of voting rights of people by the party.

He prayed for the salvation of the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members and colleagues of Zafrullah.

Dr Zafrullah, who had long been suffering from kidney-related complications, breathed his last around 11 pm on Tuesday at Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital in the capital.