Bagerhat:The long-awaited election for the executive committee of the Bagerhat District Sports Association is scheduled to take place on Saturday. This marks the first time in 15 years that voters will directly elect their preferred candidates through a ballot, sparking hopes of revitalizing sports activities in the district.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the election campaign is in full swing, with candidates actively seeking support from voters. They have committed to reviving sports activities and developing athletes capable of competing at national and international levels. The voting will occur at the Bagerhat Stadium building from 10 am to 4 pm.
The previous executive committee election, where voters directly participated, was held for the 2007-11 term. Since then, sports activities at the stadium have largely declined, with regular league matches not being held, raising concerns about the lack of opportunities for emerging local athletes. Voters hope the newly elected committee will organize regular sporting events and take effective initiatives to support new talent.
A total of 30 candidates are competing for various posts on the executive committee. Eskendar Hossain and Syed Morshed Anwar Hossain are contesting for the general secretary position. Additionally, candidates are running for the roles of additional general secretary, joint general secretaries, treasurer, executive members, and female executive members. Some positions, including four vice-presidents and two executive member posts reserved for upazila representatives, have been filled unopposed.
The election has drawn significant attention from sports enthusiasts and the broader community. Voters emphasize the need for regular leagues and tournaments to provide opportunities for talented athletes. They seek an honest and competent committee to restore the district's sporting environment and ensure consistent competitions.
Eskendar Hossain has highlighted the absence of elections over the past 15 years and the previous consensus-based committee formations. He promises to organize annual league competitions and initiatives to discover emerging talent if elected. Morshed Anwar, another general secretary candidate, aims to remove political influence from the sports scene and restore Bagerhat's sporting heritage.
Candidates also aim to engage youth in sports to discourage excessive use of digital devices and drug abuse, pledging to arrange training and coaching programs to develop athletes for national and international competitions. District Sports Officer and Returning Officer Hussain Ahmad assured that all necessary preparations are in place to ensure a smooth and festive voting process. Both candidates and voters are looking forward to a new chapter for organized sports in the district.
Source United News of Bangladesh