Valiant Freedom Fighter Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, MP, was born on 10 May 1950 in a distinguished Muslim family in Sirajganj. He is the son of Abdullah Al-Mahmud and Begum Abeda Khatun. His father was a renowned political figure who served as Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources and Water Resources in the then Pakistan government, and was also a Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, the Bengal Legislative Assembly, and the Indian Legislative Council. From an early age, he was deeply influenced by his family’s legacy of public service and leadership.
Academic Excellence and Early Leadership
Throughout his academic career, Iqbal Hassan Mahmood demonstrated outstanding merit and leadership qualities. In 1975, he completed both his Bachelor’s (Honours) and Master’s degrees from the University of Dhaka. During his student life, he actively engaged in social, cultural, and political activities, shaping his future commitment to national service.
His spouse, Rumana Mahmood, is a former Member of Parliament. He is the proud father of one son and one daughter.
Role in National Movements and the Liberation War
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood played a significant role in the historic movements that shaped the nation’s destiny. As a member of the East Pakistan Students’ Union, he actively participated in the historic Eleven-Point Movement of 1969.
In 1971, he joined the Great War of Liberation, contributing to Bangladesh’s struggle for independence with courage and patriotism. His participation in the Liberation War remains a defining chapter of his life and public service.
Parliamentary and Political Career
In the post-independence period, Mr. Mahmood continued his active engagement in national politics. He was elected as a Member of Parliament four times through direct vote, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in him by the people.
He served as a Member of the Law Commission and made notable contributions at both organizational and policy-making levels as a Member of the National Standing Committee of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. His political philosophy is firmly rooted in democracy, rule of law, institutional governance, and people-centered development.
Leadership in Industry, Commerce, and Trade
Alongside his distinguished political career, Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has accumulated over four decades of experience in industry and commerce. He has served as a sponsor director in numerous industrial ventures and played a pivotal role in advancing Bangladesh’s private sector development.
He was a former Director of the Bangladesh Shilpa Rin Sangstha (BSRS), a leading industrial financing institution of the country. He also served as President of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), contributing significantly to trade promotion and policy advocacy.
His leadership roles in major industrial enterprises include:
• Managing Director of Apex Weaving & Finishing Mills Limited
• Former Director of Apex Tannery Limited
• Former Deputy Managing Director of Apex Foods Limited
• Former Deputy Managing Director of Apex Spinning & Knitting Mills Limited
Since 1978, he has represented Bangladesh in various international forums, promoting the country’s export-oriented industries and strengthening global trade relations.
Commitment to National Development
The life and career of Hon’ble Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood reflect dedication, patriotism, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to democratic values. His contributions to politics, industry, and national development exemplify a lifelong pursuit of progress and prosperity for Bangladesh.
