The Bangladesh Film Artists Association (BFAA) election for the 2026–2028 term continued peacefully at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) premises on Friday, with artists casting their votes while calling for honest leadership, a stronger film industry and better welfare for performers.
Unlike several previous elections that saw heated exchanges, allegations and even violence, this year’s voting passed in a calm atmosphere. A visit to the BFDC showed small crowds of curious onlookers outside the gates, while the heavy police presence seen in past elections was absent. Alongside mainstream media, content creators also entered the BFDC premises without difficulty.
Voting began at 9am and voter turnout remained low until midday. Polling paused for about an hour for Friday prayers. A brief moment of tension arose when the polling centre gate was locked during the break, but the situation was resolved shortly afterwards. No other major incidents were reported.
Several film personalities who cast their votes spoke to Times of Bangladesh, sharing their expectations for the new leadership, the future of the film industry and the welfare of artists.
Most artists highlighted three priorities. They called for honest and responsible leadership, the revival of the film industry and stronger welfare support for artists.
Actor Shahiduzzaman Selim said the election atmosphere had remained peaceful and pleasant. He added that the film industry is slowly recovering and stressed that the new leadership must protect artists’ interests while playing an active role in developing the industry. He also urged the new committee to work with the government to support struggling and vulnerable artists.
Actor Azizul Hakim echoed similar views. He said voting is the responsibility of every member and urged the elected committee to ensure artists’ welfare so that no one faces financial hardship. He also stressed that working professionals in the film industry should become members of the association.
Actor Boroda Mithu said holding an election alone does not fulfil responsibility. He said the new leadership must focus on increasing film production, encouraging quality storytelling and creating regular work opportunities for artists. “If the film industry survives, artists will survive,” he said.
Actor and physician Ejajul Islam said whoever wins must work for the welfare of Bangla cinema and its artists.
Actor Aliraj expressed confidence in the transparency of the election. He said the voting process had remained fair and cordial, with no sign of malpractice.
Actor Humaira Subah urged fellow members to cast their votes after voting herself. She also expressed confidence that her preferred candidates would emerge victorious, as in previous elections.
As of Friday evening, when this report was filed, the turnout among senior artists remained relatively low. Among the veteran performers seen casting their votes were Alamgir, Uzzal, Sohel Rana, Omar Sani, Azizul Hakim, Ejajul Islam and Dolly Zahur. Among actresses, only Dighi, Shirin and Bobby were seen voting from the younger generation.
Apart from Dighi, the others are contesting the election.
Despite expressing different priorities, the artists shared one common message. They said the new leadership must go beyond organisational responsibilities by revitalising the film industry, ensuring employment and welfare for artists, and building a stronger and more united association.
A total of 573 voters are participating in the Bangladesh Film Artists Association election for the 2026–2028 term. Two full panels and several independent candidates are contesting.
