Ex-president Abdul Hamid’s overseas trip ‘misrepresented’, claims son Tushar

In response to the swirling public debate surrounding former president Abdul Hamid’s departure from Bangladesh, his youngest son, Riad Ahmed Tushar, shared an emotional Facebook post condemning what he called a “distorted” portrayal of his father’s trip.

Tushar said Hamid, who had stepped away from politics after completing his term, left for Thailand for medical treatment on the recommendation of a medical board, reports bdnews24.com.

He emphasised that, like any other citizen, Hamid is entitled to seek treatment abroad.

The clarification comes at a time of political turbulence after calls from several parties led to a ban on the Awami League and a suspension of its registration.

“A man aged 82-83 years, who, due to illness, cannot stand for more than two minutes or sit for more than two hours, is now forced to lie in bed,” Tushar wrote on Thursday.

“His weight has dropped to 54kg, and he can no longer fit into any trousers—he has to wear a lungi. For better treatment, doctors formed a board and decided he should be taken abroad.”

Tushar added that his father had made it clear after leaving office that he would no longer engage in politics and had stayed true to his word.

Describing Hamid’s trip abroad as “normal”, his son said: “Hundreds of people regularly travel from Bangladesh to Thailand for treatment, so he too can go there for care as a regular citizen.”

He accused certain quarters of “twisting” the story of his father’s departure. “Some people have taken the art of lying to a whole new level. Please pray for his recovery so he can return home soon.”

Hamid left Dhaka shortly after midnight on May 7 on a Thai Airways flight.

Many have questioned how he was able to leave the country despite being named in a case linked to the Anti-discrimination Student Movement in Kishoreganj.

In the wake of the controversy, four police officials—including the superintendent of Kishoreganj—faced disciplinary action for “negligence”.

In addition, the Chief Advisor’s Office (CAO) formed a three-strong high-level inquiry committee.

Headed by Education Advisor CR Abrar, the committee visited the immigration unit at the airport on Tuesday as part of its investigation.