Group Theatre Federation’s convening committee resigns over ‘clash in working methods’
Less than a month into their tenure, the convening committee of the Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation has tendered its resignation, citing a "conflict of working methods" with the central committee.
In a letter signed by renowned director Mamunur Rashid and dated Tuesday, the committee highlighted significant challenges in collaborating with the federation's central leadership.
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When contacted, Rashid confirmed the authenticity of the resignation letter to The Daily Star.
In the letter, they addressed that after assuming responsibility, the convening committee, led by Mamunur Rashid, requested all member theatre groups to submit reports on their activities. However, disagreements with the central committee arose, with members making comments that created confusion and led to duplicate requests for information. The central committee also took decisions and held meetings independently, further complicating the situation.
The letter further reads, "In response to attacks on Desh Natok and Aranyak Natyadal's theatre productions, the convening committee organised protest rallies, but some members of the central committee, including Kamal Bayezid, cancelled a planned rally and met with government officials. Subsequently, tensions escalated, leading to heated debates within the Federation. Despite being reminded that the conveners' decisions were final, the ongoing conflicts made it difficult for the convening committee to operate effectively. As a result, they have requested to be relieved of their duties, suggesting the formation of a new committee to ensure the smooth functioning of the Federation going forward."
Professor Malay Bhowmick, another member of the convening committee, also spoke to bdnews24.com, saying, "This convening committee was formed at the Federation's general meeting, but we are stepping down as we cannot find common ground with the central committee."
The convening committee was established on October 25 during a meeting of the Federation's Executive Council and General Council. Actor-director Mamunur Rashid was appointed as its head, tasked with leading efforts to restructure and reform the federation. The other members of the five-member committee include Professor Malay Bhowmick, Ahmad Iqbal Haider, Nader Chowdhury, and Naznin Hasan Chumki.
During the same meeting, the central committee was retained; however, Federation President Liaquat Ali Lucky was removed from office, and senior praesidium member Lucky Enam was appointed acting president. Representatives from 191 of the Federation's 232 permanent theatre organisations attended the meeting.
Professor Bhowmick explained, "When the convening committee was formed, it was clearly stated that all decisions related to the federation's restructuring would fall under our jurisdiction, while the central committee would handle routine administrative tasks."
He added, "The central committee was expected to support the convening committee, but we are now experiencing a clash in working methods."
Given these circumstances, Bhowmick noted that the convening committee is finding it increasingly difficult to carry out its responsibilities. He suggested that a new committee could be formed with capable members, excluding the current ones.
"It is essential for the Federation to establish a framework that allows it to function smoothly and effectively," he concluded.
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