A.M.A. Muhith: A Stalwart of Bangladesh's Economy

Abul Maal Abdul Muhith, often referred to as A.M.A. Muhith, stands as a towering figure in Bangladesh's modern history, particularly remembered for his remarkable tenure as the country's Finance Minister. Serving for two consecutive terms (2009-2018) under the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina, he holds the distinction of being Bangladesh's longest-serving finance minister.

Born in Sylhet in 1934, Muhith possessed an illustrious academic background. He graduated from Dhaka University and later earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard University. His early career saw him serving in the Civil Service of Pakistan (CSP) before Bangladesh's independence. Notably, he resigned from his post at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington D.C. in 1971 to pledge allegiance to the newly formed government-in-exile of Bangladesh, playing a crucial role in advocating for the country's liberation during the war.

Following Bangladesh's independence, Muhith held several important positions in the government, including Secretary of the Planning Commission and Secretary of the External Resources Division. He also worked with international organizations such as the World Bank and the United Nations. His extensive experience in development economics and public administration provided him with a solid foundation for his later role as Finance Minister.

As Finance Minister, Muhith oversaw a period of significant economic growth and development in Bangladesh. He is credited with implementing prudent fiscal policies, managing inflation, and increasing revenue collection. His budgets focused on infrastructure development, poverty reduction, and social safety nets. Key initiatives included the expansion of social security programs, investment in power generation, and improvements in transportation infrastructure.

While lauded for his economic stewardship, Muhith also faced criticism. Some argued that his policies favored certain sectors and that more could have been done to address income inequality. His sometimes outspoken nature also drew controversy. Despite these criticisms, his overall contribution to Bangladesh's economic progress is undeniable.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Muhith was known for his intellectual pursuits and literary contributions. He authored numerous books on economics, history, and politics, reflecting his wide range of interests and his commitment to intellectual discourse. He remained an active commentator on national and international issues even after retiring from active politics.

A.M.A. Muhith's legacy is one of dedicated service, intellectual rigor, and significant contribution to the economic development of Bangladesh. His long tenure as Finance Minister left an indelible mark on the nation's financial landscape, shaping its economic trajectory for years to come. He passed away in April 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy of public service and intellectual contribution.