Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for Bangladesh’s sports sector to remain free from political influence, stressing that politics should never interfere with team selection or merit-based opportunities.
“Whenever a talented athlete is excluded from a team or the national squad due to political reasons, it is deeply painful,” Fakhrul said, speaking on Tuesday afternoon during a visit to Mohammedan Sporting Club in Motijheel.
Fakhrul urged sports organisers and athletes to reject the culture of politicisation in sports. Addressing State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque, a former national football captain, he said:
“Our young sports minister is a capable and accomplished former footballer who has represented the nation. I request him to focus on keeping sports free from politics so that we can move the sector forward successfully.”
He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had also emphasised the importance of depoliticising sports at a recent event.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s launch of athlete allowances and digital sports cards on Monday, Fakhrul highlighted that athletes should avoid representing political parties during their professional careers. Instead, they should represent the nation through sporting excellence.
He praised the government initiative to provide financial support, stating that the key aim is to allow athletes to take sports as a professional career.
“This is not just about allowances; it is about ensuring that future athletes can pursue sports professionally. I believe these initiatives will bring a new direction to Bangladesh’s sporting landscape,” he said.
Fakhrul spoke of his personal passion for sports, saying he continues to attend matches whenever possible.
“If there is a match between Abahani and Mohammedan, I will definitely go to the stadium. Sports have always been part of our upbringing and passion,” he said.
Identifying himself as a supporter of Mohammedan Sporting Club, Fakhrul described the club as a historic institution dating back to the British period, and said it was an honour to address its members.
The minister concluded by expressing hope for a fresh start in Bangladesh’s sports sector.
“We have emerged from a dark period. Let us dream anew, see a new light, and rebuild our sports sector with fresh energy—that should be our goal,” he said.
He expressed optimism that under youthful leadership, clubs like Mohammedan would thrive, and that healthy competition between clubs would return to the field.
