Bangladeshi producer Arshad Adnan announced on Thursday that he has withdrawn from the upcoming Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association election, scheduled for 8 August at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), after veteran actor Uzzal entered the race for president.
The decision comes as the association prepares to hold its long-awaited election following seven years of organisational inactivity.
Although Adnan had previously declared his intention to contest the presidency, he said he ultimately decided against running after learning that Uzzal would also be a candidate for the position.
“Mr Uzzal is a highly respected member of our film family. I have great respect for him,” Adnan said. “I could not imagine contesting against him. Therefore, out of respect for him, I have decided to withdraw from the election.”
The election is expected to take place on 8 August at the BFDC premises in Dhaka.
Association Office Secretary Sumendranath said the nomination paper collection and submission process will continue until 28 July.
The announcement has generated renewed interest within the film industry, where stakeholders have welcomed the return of an electoral process after a prolonged hiatus. Producers, directors, actors and exhibitors have expressed hopes that the association will become more active and effective in addressing issues affecting the film sector.
Industry figures believe regular elections could strengthen the organisation’s role in representing the interests of film professionals and contributing to the development of the industry.
The Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association last held its biennial election on 27 July 2019. Subsequent disputes over the voter list, legal complications and various organisational challenges prevented the association from holding another election for seven years.
