London Bureau 

The central national conference 2026 of Greater Sylhet Community UK concluded successfully at the Atrium Hall in East London, bringing together around 400 delegates, guests, and community leaders from across the United Kingdom.

Held in a festive environment, the day-long event was presided over by Founders Convenor Mohammad Mokis Mansoor and jointly conducted by women’s leader Helen Islam and community organizer Mohammad Tajul Islam. Croydon Council Civic Mayor Councillor Mohammad Islam attended the conference as the chief guest.

During the second session of the conference on October 13, a new central committee of Greater Sylhet Community UK for the 2026–28 term was formed. Community leader Mohammad Mokis Mansoor was elected President, while M Ashraf Mia and Helen Islam were elected General Secretary and Treasurer, respectively.

President Mohammad Mokis Mansoor expressed gratitude to the members for trusting the team. "Leadership means responsibility, not power or authority. Unity is our biggest strength," he said, emphasizing the organization's role in advocating for expatriates' rights, fostering development in Sylhet, and maintaining community solidarity.

Speakers at the convention highlighted several key demands regarding Sylhet’s development and the rights of non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs). Their demands included launching direct flights by foreign carriers—including British Airways—from Osmani International Airport in Sylhet, reducing airfares, resolving the trolley shortage and harassment at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and expediting the expansion of the Dhaka-Sylhet highway to six lanes.

Distinguished patrons, advisors, and guest speakers—including Dr. Hasnat M. Hossain MBE, K M Abu Taher Chowdhury, Channel S Founder Mahee Ferdaus Jalil, and former presidential advisor Mukhlesur Rahman Chowdhury—congratulated the newly elected body and praised the large turnout from across Britain.

A souvenir magazine titled Oikyer Bondhon (Bond of Unity) was unveiled at the event. The program also featured the national anthem of Bangladesh, Sylheti cultural songs, poetry recitations, and traditional cuisine, turning the conference into a vibrant gathering for the Sylheti diaspora in the UK.