Md Abul Hashem, a freedom fighter and an organiser of the Liberation War, passed away yesterday.

He was 99 years old.

Hashem left behind two sons, 10 daughters, relatives and many admirers to mourn his death.

Born in 1922, Hashem was elected MNA in 1970. He was also a close associate of Bangabandhu, said a press release.

During his lifetime, Hashem was involved in various charitable works and has founded numerous educational institutions and orphanages.

For his humanitarian efforts, Hashem was awarded the Ekushey Padak, the country's second highest civilian award, in 2011.