The names of 137 councillors have been submitted to the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) for the upcoming election. Monday marked the final day for submitting councillors' names. A total of 139 voting delegates were finalised by BFF clubs, districts, educational institutions, and various organisations. Out of these, 137 organisations have submitted the names of their representatives within the stipulated timeframe. The election is scheduled to be held on 26th October.
The 137 organisations include eight Divisional Football Associations, 62 District Football Associations, 10 Premier League clubs, five Bangladesh Championship League clubs, 18 First Division clubs, eight Second Division clubs, eight Third Division clubs, four top teams from the Women's League, six universities, five education boards, the Referees and Coaches Associations, and the Women's Sports Associations.
The Satkhira and Jashore District Football Associations were unable to submit the names of any representatives. In this regard, BFF General Secretary Imran Hossain Tushar stated, "The councillorship form was not provided to these two football associations due to legal complications. They did not receive the form as their issues were not resolved by the time of the councillorship form distribution."
Questions have already been raised regarding the distribution process and nomination of councillors. Some organisers have even approached the BFF to question the nomination of councillors from certain organisations. A formal complaint has also been lodged. Consequently, the BFF has arranged a hearing on the morning of 2nd October.
Imran Hossain Tushar said, "There are complaints concerning the councillorship of some district football associations and clubs. We have requested both parties to attend on Tuesday morning. A neutral and independent committee will make a decision after hearing the arguments from both sides."
The hearing on 2nd October will be conducted by a panel of three, one of whom will be a former secretary. To ensure a fair hearing, the BFF is not disclosing the name of the secretary at this time. Sheikh Russell, one of the top clubs in domestic football, is not participating in the league this season. Therefore, the BFF did not provide them with a councillorship form. Although Sheikh Russell claims that they are eligible for councillorship based on the latest league points table, they have written a letter regarding this matter. The BFF sought FIFA's opinion on the letter. As no decision has been received from FIFA, it has been stated that Sheikh Russell will not have voting rights in the upcoming elections.
