“The Political Circus of BCB Elections”
The upcoming Bangladesh Cricket Board elections, slated for the first week of October, are shaping up to be highly politicized. A three-member Election Commission has been formed—led by Advocate Mohammad Hossain (Chief Election Commissioner), Md Sibgat Ullah (Additional IGP and CID chief), and an Executive Director from the National Sports Council—tasked with overseeing the process. ()
The competition is primarily between:
Aminul Islam Bulbul, the incumbent president with backing from the current administration.
Tamim Iqbal, the former national captain, supported by the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party). BNP leader Ali Asghar has publicly endorsed Tamim in this bid. ()
Aminul’s candidacy was further complicated by his involvement in forming the Election Commission—prompting allegations of conflict of interest, especially since he'd be involved in selecting those overseeing the contest he would directly benefit from. ()
There are also claims that the election is being influenced by national politics, with use of local sports bodies and club networks as leverage. ()
Additional Updates & Tensions
1. Security Concerns for Bulbul
Aminul Islam, feeling under threat over the election, has formally requested government protection, including a personal security detail. He has received intimidating messages urging him to withdraw. ()
2. Exit of Veteran Mahbub Anam
Mahbub Anam, a long-time BCB director and influential figure, has withdrawn from the race amid mounting pressure and allegations of mismanagement—diminishing the field of contenders and raising questions about internal power plays. ()
3. Broader Governance Concerns
Experts point out that the board structure remains heavily skewed toward Dhaka-based clubs, sidelining representation from other districts. Efforts to amend the constitution and rebalance power—such as lobbying for more voices outside Dhaka—have stalled, exacerbated by the political dominance within the cricket board. ()
Summary Table
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Candidates | Aminul Islam Bulbul (incumbent, govt-backed) vs. Tamim Iqbal (BNP-supported) |
| Conflict of Interest | Bulbul's role in forming the Election Commission he might benefit from |
| Security Issues | Bulbul alleges threats; seeking official security protection |
| Mahbub Anam’s Exit | His withdrawal shifts power dynamics and influence |
| Governance Inequity | Calls for constitutional reform to decentralize power remain unaddressed |