The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) recently concluded the three-day period for purchasing nomination papers for its upcoming elections, resulting in the sale of 62 nomination papers and a total deposit of Taka 23 lakh into the BFF treasury.
For the position of president, four nomination forms were sold, while three forms were sold for the senior vice-president post. Additionally, 43 forms were sold for the 12 and 15 executive member positions against the four vice-president posts, with some candidates opting to apply for multiple positions.
Several former star footballers have entered the race for vice-president in the BFF elections. Shafiqul Islam Manik, who previously contested for the presidency, is now vying for the vice-president role. Syed Rumman bin Wali Sabbir, a notable figure in Bangladesh football history, is also seeking the vice-presidential position once again after his last attempt in 2016. Other former football stars, including Sayeed Hasan Kanan, Iqbal Hossain, and Satyajit Das Rupu, have also taken nomination forms for both vice-president and member positions. Despite their illustrious careers, these former players have not always found success in the electoral field.
Sabbir, reflecting on his candidacy, expressed hope for a fair evaluation by the voters, stating, "We all know how the election system was in the past. A new journey has begun. I hope the voters will evaluate us fairly." Among the 43 executive member candidates, four are women, which Daisy Zafar views positively, saying, "This participation of women is definitely positive. I hope the voters will evaluate us."
The deadline for submitting nominations is October 14 and 15. Following submission, the Election Commission will scrutinise the nominations, with an objection-hearing process also in place. After the withdrawal period on October 19-20, the final list of candidates for the BFF election will be confirmed. On October 26, 133 councillors will cast their votes to determine the new leadership.
