Political influence alleged in JCI Bangladesh leadership
Staff Reporter :
JCI Bangladesh, a prominent youth leadership organisation committed to fostering community development, personal growth, and leadership training, has come under fire for alleged mismanagement and undue political influence. Concerns have been raised regarding the organization’s ties to figures associated with the Awami League (AL) and its perceived deviation from its foundational goals.
The organisation reportedly became a tool for advancing the agenda of the previous Awami League-led administration. Sources claim that since 2021, JCI Bangladesh has been controlled by Awami League affiliates, with Awami Jubo League Central Committee Member and Director of Nagad, Niaz Morshed Elite, accused of orchestrating questionable elections to take control of the organization. Reports suggest that intimidation tactics, including detaining Local Presidents before elections, were employed to ensure favorable outcomes.
The establishment of a trust, allegedly led by Niaz Morshed Elite, has further consolidated control. This trust reportedly altered JCI Bangladesh’s constitution, granting itself sweeping powers over financial and organizational decisions. Critics argue that this move was intended to entrench political influence within the organization.
Concerns over financial irregularities have also surfaced. With an annual transaction volume exceeding BDT 10 crore, much of which is contributed by JCI’s 5,000 members, accusations of mismanagement have been directed at the leadership. Allegedly, funds have been diverted for personal branding and events benefiting Awami League leaders, with minimal returns for JCI members.
Despite formal complaints by some members regarding financial mismanagement and lack of accountability, the leadership has reportedly remained unresponsive. Decisions are allegedly made by a small, select group of individuals, including Trust President Niaz Morshed Elite and current National President Imran Kadir.
Further compounding the issues, Imran Kadir has been accused of unilaterally forming a new Club Board and appointing himself as the proposed Club President. This move, allegedly made without consulting club members, has drawn sharp criticism and fueled dissatisfaction within the organization.
The interim government led by Chief Advisor Dr. Mohammad Younus has overseen widespread reforms across Bangladesh, aiming to eliminate corruption and promote transparency. However, JCI Bangladesh appears to be an exception, with many calling for similar reforms within the organization. Staff members who have raised their voices against the current leadership reportedly face threats and intimidation, highlighting the continued challenges of effecting change.
According to sources, the upcoming elections, overseen by Election Commissioner Ziaul Haque Bhuiyan, have sparked controversy due to allegations of bias and undue influence by AL-affiliated leaders. Many Local Presidents and members reportedly feel coerced into supporting the current leadership, which could undermine the democratic process.
As Bangladesh undergoes a transformative period aimed at rooting out corruption and fostering transparency, calls are growing louder for JCI Bangladesh to align with these national ideals. Members and observers stress the need for a leadership that prioritizes the organization’s mission over political affiliations.
The unfolding situation has cast a shadow over JCI Bangladesh’s potential to serve as a platform for empowering young leaders. Whether it can restore its credibility and reclaim its mission of positive change remains a pressing question in this new chapter of Bangladesh’s history.