The interim government led by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus was sworn in on Thursday, with portfolio distribution completed by noon on Friday. Asif Mahmud, one of the coordinators of the anti-discrimination movement, has been appointed adviser to the ministry of Youth and Sports.
The anti-discrimination movement has brought significant changes to the country's governmental system. With Asif, the activist, now responsible for the sports ministry, many in the sports community are hopeful for the necessary reforms to develop the sports arena.
National sports award-winning athlete and organiser Kamrun Nahar Dana has always been a strong advocate. Her request to Asif Mahmud is clear: “There has been a huge change in the country due to their movement. The youth can build a beautiful Bangladesh, and the sports arena can play a significant role in this. Therefore, reforms are needed for the development of the sports arena.”
The former athlete and organiser also emphasised the need for reforms in the sports arena. She stated, “The stadium is a place for athletes. However, it is currently controlled by people in the political arena. We hope for a politics-free sports arena. Asif has led a major reform movement in the country, and I hope for political reform in the sports arena as well.”
In Bangladesh's sports structure, sports are managed through federations. The president and general secretary of several federations have been appointed based on political considerations and influence. Despite the lack of improvement and change in many federations, the same individuals have held the general secretary's position for years. Legendary footballer Sheikh Mohammad Aslam highlighted this issue, saying,
“Many are holding on to their positions.”
Even if the games are delayed, these individuals remain in good standing. These issues should be addressed through reforms. There is no real evaluation of success or failure in sports, and therefore, accountability is also expected. Sheikh Aslam remarked, “Football is the most popular game in the country.
However, there is no real accountability. Transparency and impartiality will not come without accountability.”
Dana and Aslam, two legendary sportspersons, are optimistic about Asif. They said, “Our young generation is very talented. Asif has led such a significant movement, so he will be able to implement the necessary reforms in the sports field as well. They called for a discussion meeting for reforms or changes.”
“He can sit with some prominent people from all sections of the sports field. If there is a discussion, I will definitely present a well-thought-out opinion,” they added.
Mahfuza Khatun Shila, a former swimmer and current generation sportsperson, who won two gold medals at the Gauhati SA Games, is also hopeful of better things. She said, “Development in sports is a matter of time. I hope he can provide good guidance on policy and structure issues. Young people are sports fans. I hope he is also a sportsman.”
