Former national team captain Aminul Haque has emerged as a leading voice demanding reforms in Bangladesh’s football. After over a decade of marginalisation, Aminul and other sports organisers have taken a bold stand, calling for the resignation of Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) President Kazi Salahuddin and the postponement of the upcoming elections. Aminul's return to the on Saturday after nearly ten years marks a pivotal moment, as he vocally criticises the current administration and highlights the urgent need for accountability and transparency in the sport
The protesters led by Aminul formed a human chain called for BFF President Kazi Salahuddin to resign within 24 hours, threatening to declare him unwanted in the sports arena and even to disgrace him if he did not comply. Aminul also requested the postponement of the upcoming BFF elections, citing the current floods and overall situation as reasons.
The BFF's elected committee's term ends on 3rd September, and they had already set the election date for 26th October with FIFA's approval. Aminul's call for postponement seems reasonable given the circumstances, but it also adds to the pressure on Salahuddin. Aminul made it clear that they want the elections to be held only after Salahuddin's resignation, accusing him of corruption and stating that he has no moral right to remain as president. This stance is quite bold and reflects a deep frustration with the current state of football governance in the country.
The Football Federation operates under FIFA's directives, and any government or third-party interference could lead to a ban from FIFA. This is a serious concern, as Bangladesh experienced such a ban in 2001. Aminul addressed this issue, assuring that if Salahuddin resigns, they would manage the federation in strict accordance with FIFA's guidelines. This shows a commitment to maintaining international standards while pushing for local reforms.
Aminul Haque, a legendary figure in Bangladeshi football, returned to the BFF after nearly a decade. His return and his strong statements against Salahuddin indicate a significant shift in the dynamics of football administration. He accused Salahuddin of benefiting from the support of an autocratic government and expressed confidence that Salahuddin would no longer be able to escape accountability.
At the human chain in front of the BFF building, Abdus Salam, president of the Sports Development Council and a top BNP leader, accused the sports sector of partisanship over the past decade. They also told that the sports sector including BFF has been completely politicised.
The human chain saw participation from former national star footballers like Syed Rumman Bin Wali Sabbir, Said Hasan Kanan, and former DUCSU leader Khairul Kabir Khokon, among others. The presence of these prominent figures underscores the seriousness of the demands being made.
After the human chain, Aminul, Abdus Salam, and several former footballers met with BFF General Secretary Imran Hossain Tushar to discuss their demands. Tushar informally told the media that he would inform the BFF president and executive committee about the demands and proposals, and take steps according to their decisions.
Interestingly, immediately after the human chain, football supporters began chanting slogans demanding Salahuddin's resignation. Some held banners and festoons in front of the building, while others took positions inside. Despite the gathering of around a hundred people, no untoward incidents occurred, which is a testament to the peaceful nature of the protest.
