|| Nazrul islam: A memorial meeting and prayer session was held in Dhaka on Saturday in memory of Abul Kasem, vice-president of the Barishal Divisional Somity,  and Rafiqullah Sikder Alo, its publicity secretary.The programme was organised at the VIP Room of Motijheel Kitchen Yard, with President of the Barishal Division Association and freedom fighter Md Ziaul Kabir Dulu in the chair.Leaders and members of the association, representatives of different professional and regional organisations, and well-wishers attended the memorial gathering. Speakers recalled the contributions and dedicated service of the two deceased leaders, particularly their roles in addressing various problems and advancing the development interests of the Barishal division.Among those who spoke at the programme were the association's adviser and former National Board of Revenue (NBR) member Abul Kasem, Vice-President M A Rashid, General Secretary and freedom fighter Md Abdus Sobahan, retired District Judge Abdur Rob Howlader, freedom fighter Enayet Hossain Akand, Professor Sabuj Alam, Wahid Murad, M Mohiuddin of Bhola Samiti, Vice-President of Bhola Samiti Maksud Maltia, and Abdur Rahman Nirob.The speakers said the late Abul Kasem and Rafiqullah Sikder Alo had played significant roles in the activities of the Barishal Division Association and had remained committed to the welfare and development of the people of the region. They recalled their professional and social contributions with gratitude and respect.The speakers also highlighted the deceased leaders' efforts to help resolve various development-related problems facing the Barishal division. Their commitment to regional development and their involvement in the association's activities, they said, would be remembered by the people of Barishal with deep respect.A special prayer was offered for the eternal peace of the departed souls. Hafiz Md Tayeb, imam of Sonali Bank, conducted the munajat.The meeting concluded with prayers for the forgiveness of the deceased and for strength and patience for their bereaved families.