Bapparaj and Rumana Islam Mukti have announced their candidacy for the President and General Secretary posts respectively in the upcoming Bangladesh Film Artistes’ Association elections for the 2026–28 term, with the panel expected to contest under their joint leadership.
The announcement has created renewed discussion within the film industry as the association prepares for a new leadership cycle following the end of the 2024–26 executive committee’s term on April 24. According to the constitution, a new election must be held within three months.
Confirming his candidacy, Bapparaj said, “I wanted to visit my father’s grave and share the news. It has already been in the media. In a way, that was good because many artists called and texted to wish me well after hearing about my candidacy for the post of president. Many expressed their excitement and shared posts. They said they were very happy to hear the news. I also saw that we were received positively on social media. The artists want me to take over the leadership of the Artistes’ Association. I have decided to take part in the election this time out of a sense of responsibility, giving importance to the wishes of the artists.”
He also referred to his family’s legacy within the association, saying, “My father was the founding president of the Artistes’ Association. I was also on the committee in the past. Anowara Begum was also on the committee in the past.”
Bapparaj continued, “In the meantime, Mukti has also fulfilled her responsibilities. We, the next generation, want to work for the artists in the new term. We have already made several plans, and if the artists give us the opportunity, we will implement them for their welfare. I hope the respected artists will keep us in their support and give us a chance to work. I also seek the prayers and love of my fans and countrymen.”
The proposed panel, led by Bapparaj and Mukti, has stated that its aim is to protect the rights of association members and contribute to the development of the film industry. It is expected to include both senior and emerging artists.
Industry sources suggest that another panel may also contest the election, with the official schedule for the Film Artistes’ Association vote expected to be announced soon.
