An Awami League Member of Parliament, Mr Kibria, in the past had served his country with great distinction as a diplomat, eventually becoming Foreign Secretary. He had also discharged his duties most competently as head of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) with the rank of Under Secretary General of the United Nations. He was also known not only for having been a freedom fighter but also for his contribution towards the organising of the liberation struggle abroad. Always interested in upholding the rich Bangla cultural heritage, Mr Kibria is remembered by many in this volume for his dedication in the spread of the literary ethos of Bangladesh abroad.

One must admit that Mr Shahjahan, the editor of this volume deserves special thanks for the efforts undertaken by him not only to compile all the article published on the late Awami League leader but also for enhancing the quality of the contents through the inclusion of rare personal photographs of late Mr Kibria and his family.

The range and variety of the articles included in this publication has made it a must for anyone interested in understanding the socio-economic-political evolution of Bangladesh over the last few decades. It also clarifies the important role played by Mr Kibria during this period. Similarly, this publication will continue to be regarded as a significant source of information by any one interested in research -- particularly in the manner in which macro-economic and fiscal strategies were decided upon during his tenure as Finance Minister. Several articles outline how he successfully charted a middle course in his policy making goals within the constraints of a restrictive donor agenda.

Many months have passed since the brutal murder of Mr SAMS Kibria but the assailants have not yet been identified. Justice delayed is justice denied. The government must understand that there is a cause and effect relationship in their action or absence of reaction. Empty words impact on governance and encourage criminals. The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be apprehended and punished according to the law of the land. Only then will the broken hearts of the aggrieved family members and the many admirers of late Mr Kibria be satisfied.

Muhammad Zamir is a former secretary and Ambassador -- any response to [email protected]