The controversy over the Bangladesh Film Artistes’ Association election for the 2026–28 term continues even after the polls ended.
Newly elected president Shiba Shanu has responded to the allegations raised by defeated candidates Rozina and Poly.
After the election, actress Rozina said organisers convinced her to join Joy Chowdhury’s panel by making an emotional appeal. She claimed the defeat had left her feeling insulted.
In frustration, she said she did not want her body to be taken to the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (FDC) after her death. However, she added that she would attend the FDC if she received an invitation to any government programme.
Actress Poly also raised allegations about the election process. She claimed that extortion, financial transactions and the distribution of black money took place during the election. She demanded an investigation into the matter and sought the Prime Minister’s intervention.
Responding to the allegations, Shiba Shanu said any candidate can feel disappointed after losing an election. He said the pain of defeat can sometimes influence people’s words and reactions.
“I want to run the Artistes’ Association by bringing everyone together. Those who did not win the election will also get opportunities to work through different subcommittees. I will try to ensure their involvement in activities for the welfare of artistes,” he said.
Regarding the allegations of financial transactions, Shiba Shanu said disappointment and doubts after the election result may have influenced such statements.
“I believe these misunderstandings will end soon. I will talk to them and listen to what they want to say. I have no knowledge of any distribution of money,” he said.
Shiba Shanu also expressed concern over some social media and YouTube content. He said some YouTube channels use exaggerated and misleading headlines to increase views, which creates confusion among artistes.
He added that mainstream media publish news responsibly. Shiba Shanu said he would work to avoid such misunderstandings and ensure the Artistes’ Association continues its activities smoothly in the future.
