Lobbying intensifies for BCB divisional councillorship as deadlines loom

As the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election approaches, the atmosphere across districts and divisions has turned increasingly volatile.

With the window for securing councillorships closing, representatives are reportedly turning to influential circles—including local Ministers and Members of Parliament—to guarantee their positions on the voter list.

According to the official BCB schedule, today, 16 May, marks the final deadline for submitting names. However, there are whispers that the federation may extend this deadline by two days due to pressure from regional political leaders. 

Sources indicate that while 40% of names from districts and divisions have been submitted, the remaining 60% are stalled amidst intense lobbying. Similarly, 30% of Dhaka-based clubs have yet to finalise their representatives.

Former BCB director Sirajuddin Mohammad Alamgir warned that any extension could compromise the election’s integrity, noting that it may lead to allegations of providing "extra advantages" to specific individuals.

The stakes are high, as 10 of the 25 directors are elected from the divisions. National Sports Council (NSC) regulations mandate that councillors must be former cricketers or organisers, yet reports suggest political identity is currently trumping these criteria. In several regions, District Administrators and Divisional Commissioners have struggled to finalise lists due to external political pressure.

The situation is equally complex regarding the 76 Dhaka club councillorships, which decide 12 director positions. While "consensus" has historically governed this category, several clubs have now fallen under the influence of major industrial groups. 

One such group, controlling 15 to 17 clubs, has yet to submit its names. 

Adding to the intrigue, a former powerful board director is rumoured to be returning to the country today or tomorrow to announce his candidacy. With a three-member Election Commission already formed, the polls are expected by mid-next month.