Dhaka, Sep 17 (V7N)- Ajmal Hossain Khadem, a former president of the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) and a veteran journalist, passed away on Monday night at the age of 76. He died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in the capital after suffering a heart attack.

Khadem's funeral prayer (Janaza) is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at Banani Masjid, after which he will be laid to rest at Banani graveyard. His daughter, Kimia Aksir, confirmed the news of his passing through a post on social media.

Khadem had a distinguished career in journalism, having worked with the newspaper Banglar Bani for many years. He gained prominence through his work on Radio Bangladesh's Sambad Prabha, a widely popular news review programme from the 1980s that aired during the 9 p.m. newscast.

In 1998, Khadem was elected president of the Dhaka Reporters Unity. He was also a permanent member of various journalist organisations, including the National Press Club.

Khadem is survived by his children. His eldest daughter and son-in-law live in Dhaka, while his two other daughters reside in the UK.

The media community and colleagues have expressed deep sorrow at his passing, remembering him for his contributions to journalism and his leadership in various press organisations.

END/SMA/AJ