Air Vice Marshal (retd) AK Khandaker, Bir Uttam, deputy chief of staff of the Liberation War and former chief of the Bangladesh Air Force, passed away on Saturday morning.

He died at 10:35am due to old age, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

A distinguished freedom fighter and visionary military leader, AK Khandaker played a pivotal role during the 1971 Liberation War as deputy chief of staff under the Mujibnagar government. He later became the first chief of the Bangladesh Air Force, leading efforts to rebuild and reorganise the force after independence.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of Air Vice Marshal (retd) AK Khandker, Bir Uttam, deputy chief of staff of the Liberation War and former chief of the Bangladesh Air Force.

In a message of condolence, Fakhrul stated, "I express my profound condolences to the grieving family and relatives of AK Khandker." 

He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed patience and empathy towards the bereaved family.

The message mentioned that AK Khandaker, who served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the freedom fighters, was the first Chief of the Bangladesh Air Force. 

 He played a brave and heroic role in Bangladesh's Great War of Liberation. In recognition of his unique contributions to the Liberation War, he was awarded with the title 'Bir Uttam' and received the Independence Award in 2011.

 BNP Secretary General also noted that AK Khandaker's contributions during the war for the country's liberation will remain indelible forever in the nation's memory. His compassion for the country and his devoted role in safeguarding its independence and sovereignty will serve as an exemplary instance to be emulated.

The message also mentioned that his sincerity towards humanity and patriotism have left a lasting impression on society.