In separate messages, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and General Secretary Mannan Bhuiyan expressed their deep shock at his death.

They also prayed for salvation of the departed soul and conveyed sympathy to members of the bereaved family.

BSS adds: Firoj Noon had been suffering from heart ailments and was sent to Mount Elizabeth Hospital a week ago when his condition deteriorated.

He underwent by-pass surgery on Friday but breathed his last yesterday morning at his hospital bed.

His body is scheduled to arrive this afternoon by a Thai Airlines flight.