President M Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister today (April 30) expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of former finance minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith.

In a condolence message, the president said Muhith played an important role in laying a strong foundation of country's economy during his tenure as finance minister.

He said the nation will remember Muhith's contribution with respect to the progress of building a developed and prosperous Bangladesh.

In her message of condolence, the PM said, "The Independence Award-winning successful economist and politician will be remembered through his works."

The Prime Minister said the then Pakistan civil service member Abdul Muhith joined Bangladesh Government leaving the side of Pakistan (during War of Liberation) when he was working in Pakistan embassy in the USA.

They prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed profound sympathy to the bereaved family.

Meanwhile, Muhith - - acclaimed widely as an economist, diplomat, language veteran and freedom fighter -- breathed his last at 12:56 am today at the United Hospital in the capital at 88 years old.