In memory of ‘Nana’ Barrister Mainul Hosein, a beacon of democracy

Nur Aleena Hosein :

Many knew Barrister Mainul Hosein as a lawyer, journalist, and the eldest son of the renowned Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah, the founding editor of The Daily Ittefaq. To me, however, he was simply Nana – a loving grandfather who always made time for his family while dedicating his life to justice with courage and integrity. Reflecting on his legacy is both an honour and a responsibility, as I believe the younger generation of Bangladesh must learn from his life and values.
My grandfather was the eldest son of Manik Miah, a prominent journalist and politician who championed the rights of the people of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) and was a vocal advocate for democracy during the country’s struggle for independence. This legacy was upheld by my grandfather, Barrister Mainul Hosein, who remained steadfast in his commitment to political freedom throughout his life. In 1975, he was one of only two individuals, alongside General MAG Osmani, to resign from Parliament in protest against Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s imposition of the one-party system under BAKSAL (Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League). In his book, Bangladesh: Tragedy of Deceit and Duplicity, Nana described BAKSAL as a “one-man dictatorship.” His decision to step down at such a critical time was not merely an act of protest but a declaration of the principles that guided his life.
In 2007, during the caretaker government, Nana served as the Adviser for Law, Information, and Land. Although recognised primarily for his political role, he was first and foremost a barrister. He was among the earliest advocates for an independent judiciary in Bangladesh and played a pivotal role in establishing it during his tenure. Reflecting on the challenges, he once said, “It is so strange that highly placed educated officers were not recognising that separation of the judiciary was a constitutional obligation.” Above all, Nana was known for his unwavering moral integrity and his determination to speak the truth, regardless of the consequences.
While his professional accomplishments define his public legacy, I feel compelled to share personal memories that shaped my understanding of who Barrister Mainul Hosein was as a person. To me, his life extended beyond his identity as a lawyer, journalist, or political advocate. As a child, I saw how Nana shielded me from the stereotypes prevalent in Bangladeshi society. He championed my education and independence and instilled in me the belief that equal rights are fundamental.
His actions mirrored these beliefs. He consulted my Nanu (grandmother), whom he affectionately called “Begum Shaheb,” on every decision. Whenever he was asked to speak about his father, Manik Miah, Nana often said, “Before I tell you my Abba’s story, I must start with Amma because she changed his life; she changed all our lives.” Nana was truly ahead of his time, fostering an environment in our family where equality and respect were deeply ingrained values.
Nana’s influence extended indirectly to all of us. His love for animals is evident in every member of our family. His passion for the piano, though not imposed on us, inspired us all to learn. I inherited his love for archiving, while his youngest grandson, Gabriel Tofazzal Hosein, shares his enthusiasm for photography. His books, which I have only recently begun to read, make me wish I had asked him more questions when he was still here.
Nana’s final years were marked by personal and public struggles. His immense love for the country often overshadowed his focus on family. In February 2023, he was diagnosed with cancer, and his health began to decline rapidly. Even during his time in hospital, he devoted himself to writing and editing what would be his final book. In its opening chapter, he outlined his vision for a better Bangladesh and stressed the vital role of the younger generation in leading the nation out of its current challenges.
Nana’s legacy was never about seeking recognition or glory. It was about passing on the torch to the younger generation, urging them to embrace the values he and his father held dear. As he poignantly wrote, “The younger generation must not remain blindfolded to the facts and live with fictions. They must not grope in the darkness of lies. In the absence of the right leadership and inspiration from our educated people, they find no guidance and see no clear path forward. They must build their own hope for change.”
When I was 13, I learned that Nana was affectionately called “Hero” by his family, and now I understand why. He was, and always will be, a hero to me. Though he is no longer with us, it is comforting to know that his fight was not in vain. His legacy and his unwavering faith in the younger generation endure, inspiring us to carry forward his ideals. This brings me peace and renews my commitment to uphold the values he lived and fought for.
(Aleena is graduated from Monash University, Malaysia).