Staff Correspondent, Narayanganj

After 16 years, democratic practices have returned to the Bangladesh Hosiery Association, which had long been under restrictive control.

The date for the Hosiery Association election has been announced, sparking excitement among hosiery traders. They are now eagerly preparing to exercise their voting rights, a long-awaited opportunity to choose leaders capable of addressing their issues. The vibrant campaign has garnered widespread attention, with the “Badu Panel” emerging as a frontrunner.

The association, freed from prolonged control by former president Badiuzzaman Badu, is now at the forefront of conversations among traders. Many consider Badu the rightful guardian of the association. Supported by experienced leaders such as Abdus Sabur Sintu, the Badu Panel is seen as a strong contender for victory.

A total of 33 candidates have submitted their nomination papers for the 2025–2027 election of the Bangladesh Hosiery Association. On January 1, nomination papers were submitted at the Hosiery Club building on Sanatan Pal Lane by an 18-member panel of the General and Associate groups and a 15-member Independent Unity Hosiery Owners’ Forum.

Badu Panel Candidates

The Badu Panel includes former president Alhaj Badiuzzaman Badu, Abdus Sabur Khan Sintu, Monir Hossain Khan, Md. Dulal Mallik, Ataur Rahman, Md. Mizanur Rahman, Alhaj Md. Monir Hossain, Haji Md. Shahin, Md. Abdul Hai, Baidyanath Poddar, Md. Masudur Rahman, Md. Parvez Mallik, and Associate Group members Saeed Ahmed Swapan, Md. Nasir Sheikh, Md. Billal Hossain, Anil Babu, Hiru Sheikh, and Nasim Ahmed.

Independent Forum Candidates

Independent candidates include Fateh Ali Reza Ripon, Nazmul Haque, Lutfor Rahman Fakir, Babul Chandra Das, Sushanto Pal Chowdhury, Md. Awlad Hossain, Md. Abul Bashar Baset, Md. Didar Khandakar, and Associate Group candidates Masud Rana, Narayan Chandra Majumdar, Moktar Hossain, Masum Molla, Faruq Ahmed, Ibn-e-Md. Al Kawsar, and Anwar Hossain.

Nomination papers were scrutinized on January 4, and the preliminary list of candidates was published on January 18. Voting will be held on February 3 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Badiuzzaman Badu, a popular leader from Nayamati, expressed relief that the association, which had been under restrictive control for 16 years, is finally experiencing democratic progress. “The Hosiery Association was under the grip of a particular group, and business owners were deprived of voting rights. We have ensured this election, giving back the right to vote,” he said.

Seeking cooperation from journalists, Badu added, “Your support in presenting accurate information will help revive the association and ensure a vibrant environment for hosiery traders.”

Despite this progress, a faction is allegedly crafting a blueprint to disrupt the democratic process. Discussions and criticisms among traders reflect skepticism about whether this election will truly represent their voices.

For years, the Hosiery Association had been dominated by syndicates linked to Selim Osman, an ally of the ruling Awami League. However, the resignation of Sheikh Hasina amid mass protests on August 5 led to the collapse of these power structures, creating room for democratic renewal.

Many traders are hopeful that fair leadership will bring about significant changes, though some remain concerned about the lingering influence of syndicates. A trader, preferring anonymity, echoed a recent statement by BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, emphasizing the need to root out remnants of past oppression.

The election’s success hinges on participation, transparency, and the elimination of unfair practices. The association has made clear that prior irregularities, including manipulation of voter lists, will not be tolerated this time.