Objection against Tamim’s councillorship dismissed

Bangladesh star Tamim Iqbal's councillorship was called into question after an objection was filed with the BCB election commission, claiming he had no ties with Old DOHS Sports Club, the entity from which he was named councilor.

However, the election commission later clarified that the objection was not accepted since the applicant was absent during Thursday's hearing.

Earlier in the afternoon, Tamim appeared at the BCB offices for a hearing concerning the 15 clubs that were barred from submitting councilor names following observations from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Tamim, the vice-president of Gulshan Cricket Club -- one of the 15 clubs -- was present to represent his club.

Although the BCB had clarified in its September 20 board meeting that these clubs would be allowed to participate in the elections, the subsequent councilors' list left their fate in the hands of the election commission.

"I came as the vice-president of one of the 15 clubs that had an issue. But when I spoke, I clearly told them that the bigger issue here is not the 15 clubs, but the 300 cricketers. These 15 clubs regularly play cricket in various divisions and pay the players. For many players, this payment is 70-80% of their annual income. It's not just about the players; their families are also involved. So, whatever decision you take, you must remember this," Tamim said in Mirpur on Thursday.

When asked whether he expected a fair election, Tamim alleged that manipulation was still underway.

"It's not a matter of being hopeful; it should be a fair election. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure reforms and set good examples. If one part of the government tries to manipulate an election like this, it does not set a good precedent. Everything I warned about in my press conference is happening; lists are being changed, deadlines are being ignored. My only message is: You don't need to speak in my favor. Speak for the truth," Tamim said.

Before the election commission addressed the media, Tamim was also asked whether he would participate in the polls given what he described as a "dirty game."

"I can't answer that right now. The first question is whether I will be allowed to participate in the election or not. That remains to be seen," he said.

Later, the election commission confirmed that the objection against Tamim's councillorship had not been accepted.