The Bangladesh Film Artists Association (BFAA) election for the 2026–2028 term concluded early Saturday after an overnight vote count, with newly elected president Shiba Shanu and general secretary Joy Chowdhury promising to prioritise artists’ welfare, unity and the revival of the film industry.
Voting took place from 9am to 6pm on Friday at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). Election officials announced the final results at around 5am on Saturday after completing the count.
Speaking exclusively to TIMES of Bangladesh, the newly elected leaders thanked members for their support and pledged to fulfil the promises they made during the campaign.
Shiba Shanu, elected president, reacted emotionally after the result was announced. He said the trust placed in him by fellow artists carried a huge responsibility. Removing the flower garland from around his neck, he said he did not deserve to wear it yet and would only do so after fulfilling the commitments he had made to artists.
General secretary Joy Chowdhury reflected on the effort behind the panel’s campaign. He said the team had worked to build a strong and effective committee with the support of senior artists and their presidential candidate. He thanked everyone who stood beside them, naming Subrata as a key organiser and acknowledging Jacky Alamgir’s contribution. Although the campaign was challenging, he said the panel remained united throughout and would now work together for the development of the film industry.
According to the official results, Shiba Shanu secured the presidency with 243 votes, defeating Arman, who received 173. Joy Chowdhury won the general secretary post with 237 votes, while Rumana Islam Mukti secured 179.
A total of 573 members were eligible to vote. Of them, 480 cast ballots. Election officials counted 416 valid votes and declared 64 invalid.
Elsewhere, Ali Raz and Elias Kobra won their respective posts with 260 and 216 votes. Rozina and Nutan secured 152 and 204 votes respectively.
Subrata was elected assistant general secretary after defeating Rina Khan with 266 votes. Soni Rahman won the organising secretary post with 263 votes against Chunnu’s 183. MA Parvez Chowdhury Abir secured the international affairs secretary post with 272 votes, defeating Polly, who received 144. Jacky Alamgir won office and publicity secretary with 221 votes, Maruf Akib became culture and sports secretary with 226, while Kamruzzaman Kamal won the treasurer post with 221 votes, ahead of Jadu Azad’s 197.
Among the 11 executive committee members, actor Kayes Arju topped the poll with 324 votes. The remaining elected members are Alibraj, Nasrin, Jesmin Akter, Sushanto, Shipon Mitra, Shamim Khan (Chikon Ali), Raka, Shirin Shila, Kabila and Farhad.
