An emissary's memoirs
All the ambassadors I have referred to above played an important role in the evolving history of this region in the decades of the seventies, eighties and the nineties. In more ways than one, they were associated with our liberation struggle that eventually ended with the emergence of independent Bangladesh in 1971.
The significant thing about Shehabuddin however was his direct and inter-active involvement with our war of independence. A man of principles, not afraid to be honest, he was the first career diplomat of Bangladeshi origin to renounce his allegiance to Pakistan and pledge loyalty to the unborn state of Bangladesh. He was posted at that time as a junior officer in the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. The book reveals his total commitment towards the cause for Bangladesh and the lack of hesitation on his part and that of his lady wife. Their participation as well as that of Amjadul Huq in the struggle, acquires special relevance given the fact that their decision was not based on any material considerations. Unlike our many other 'freedom fighter' diplomats, who bargained with the Mujibnagar authorities over pay and allowances and many other privileges, Shehabuddin, AH Mahmood Ali, AMA Muhith and Mohiuddin Ahmed did not do so. They threw caution to the wind and joined the struggle out of spontaneous conviction, totally aware that the path ahead was full of difficulties.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The author has traced his journey through life with sensitivity. His description of the socio-economic background of rural Chittagong will open windows among expatriate Bangladeshis. His portrayal of his family members will also be a sociological testament of how a Muslim family has expanded its horizon from rural Bangladesh to a wider world setting. His narration of 'the joys of his childhood' will similarly be interesting for many who have since seen it disappear because of urbanisation.
Ambassador Shehabuddin has also provided his readers with rare nuggets of background information. In page 75, he narrates his experience with former President Ziaur Rahman and Begum Zia in his Apartment in Paris (where he was then posted). I quote the relevant sentences -- "He (Zia) proudly said that he did what he did then in the name of Bangabandhu. Both he and Begum Zia clearly held Bangabandhu in the highest esteem." This is refreshing given the controversy that has been created in the recent past by overzealous supporters of President Ziaur Rahman who are attempting to distort history.
The author has also placed on record the many nuances that accompanied the efforts of liberation struggle both in Calcutta and New Delhi. He has also recorded the role played by our important political leaders to bring relief and succor to the millions of Bangladeshi refugees who had sought sanctuary in India. He has also recalled how the cabinet functioned in the interim government of Mujibnagar and the difficulties that were encountered in trying to project the activities of the Bangladesh government in exile in the international media.
The later part of the book deals with the author's experiences in Europe, the Middle East and in North America.
The chapters dealing with the USA are particularly interesting. It allows the readers to be exposed to the many delicate protocol problems that ambassadors have to encounter and overcome. It also reveals the many sensitive aspects of logistics that are associated with VVIP visits and their inordinately large entourages.
Shehabuddin has also recounted his association with the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this context, he quite correctly gives due credit to the former Foreign Minister Professor Shamsul Huq, not only for promoting understanding with India but also for the recognition bestowed on Bangladesh within the UN structure.
The publication will also be appreciated for the many historical photographs that have been included.
Students of international relations both within Bangladesh and abroad should study Shehabuddin's account of events and reference to documentation carefully. This book needs to be purchased and kept carefully in our personal libraries.