The Lakshmipur district unit of the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) is facing a severe leadership crisis, with grassroots students distancing themselves from a committee dominated by married individuals, businessmen, and expatriates.
Despite being a student organization, the district unit has not seen a new committee in seven years. The current "Super Five" leadership, appointed on June 4, 2018, remains in power even though three subsequent central committees have been formed.
Investigation reveals that the top leadership has long moved past their student years. President Hasan Mahmud Ibrahim is a father of two, while General Secretary Abdullah Al Mamun and several Vice Presidents are also married with children.
Of the 384-member district committee, over 90% are reportedly involved in business, government employment, or reside abroad as expatriates. Many leaders concurrently hold positions in other BNP affiliates, such as the Jubo Dal (Youth Wing) and Krishak Dal (Farmers' Wing).
The lack of regular leadership transitions has stifled the emergence of new political talent. In the 24 years since 2002, only three committees have been formed. In contrast, between 1979 and 2001, the district saw 10 different committees.
Local BNP leaders, including joint convener Hachibur Rahman Haseeb, expressed concern: "Chhatra Dal is the factory for BNP’s future leadership. If this factory stops producing, the entire party will suffer from a shortage of qualified leaders."
Current students at Lakshmipur Government College feel a significant "mental distance" from the aging leadership. "Those leading us finished their studies years ago. How can they understand our problems?" asked Rakir Hossain, a local student.
This organizational stagnation is expected to impact the party's performance in the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, as the unit struggles to attract and mobilize new, young voters.
District General Secretary Abdullah Al Mamun stated that a restructuring process is underway following central directives. Meanwhile, Central Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir Ahmed acknowledged the stagnation, confirming that a new committee for Lakshmipur has been finalized and will be announced soon under the direction of Tarique Rahman.
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