SAMS Kibria's death

Mr. Kibria was not a typical self-styled trumpet blowing Bangladeshi politician. He wrote in the local papers about many issues in an analytical and cohesive manner. In a country where most politicians' views, characteristics and convictions leave much to be desired, Mr. Kibria held his position admirably well.

The tribute he has received over the past several days is an indication of the personality he was and the friends he had. So the sheer brutality, with which a former diplomat, freedom fighter and finance minister was struck down, should make us question our levels of tolerance and acceptance of what is happening.

For if we accept what is happening without questioning it, we are allowing our humanity to erode. The graphic details and articulate writings describing the carnage without any warning to its readers & viewers serve as a reminder that our society is also at risk of becoming influenced by these horrific images.

Mr. Kibria's death is rightly mourned because it also symbolises a democratic institution which is yet to be free of fear. It also serves as a warning to the next person willing to take the podium.