A pall of gloom gripped the Jatiya Sangsad yesterday as it had an unusually calm sitting, condoling the sudden demise ol ruling Awami League mem ber Sharifuddln Ahmed

Unlike on any other day. lawmakers irrespective of their party affiliations remem bered the late legislator with profound grief and great re gards. He was termed an uncommon personality in the po Htlcal arena.

The members belonging to various parties forgot their political rivalry for those moments. The usual noises, shouts and hot debate were

bers of the parliament were seen speechless, listening to their colleagues speaking about the rare qualities of late Sharifuddln Ahmed. Side-talks were seldom seen during the about two-hour sitting.

Participants in the discussion on an obituary reference, adopted by the House, were unanimous that the honest, dedicated and simple-living parliamentarian had left no wealth but people s affection and love.

They also shared the view that the ideals and principles, left by Sharifuddln. is exemplary for politicians of the country.

Twenty-five lawmakers including the Leader of the House Sheikh Hasina. Deputy Leader of the Opposition Prof Badruddoza Choudhury and Jatiya Party chief H M Ershad spoke on the occasion paying glowing tributes to Sharifud-din. Their voices were at times emotion-choked, creating a sombre atmosphere in the House.