Dhaka, July 1 (V7N) — The recent inclusion of Golam Saklain Jony in the newly formed ad-hoc committee of the Bangladesh Taekwondo Federation has sparked widespread criticism and raised serious concerns regarding the neutrality and professionalism of national sports bodies.
 
The ad-hoc committee was constituted by the National Sports Council (NSC) through official letter no. 34.03.0000.004.05.024.24, aiming to promote the development of taekwondo in Bangladesh and eliminate discrimination within the federation. However, stakeholders and sports enthusiasts are voicing strong objections to Jony’s appointment, citing his political background and past controversial involvement in politically charged events.
 
According to multiple verified sources and documented evidence, Golam Saklain Jony has long been an active political worker affiliated with the ruling Awami League. He previously served as the General Secretary of the Taekwondo Association under the Rajshahi District Sports Association, allegedly under the direct patronage of prominent Awami League leaders, including A.H.M. Khairuzzaman Liton, Presidium Member and former Mayor of Rajshahi, and Dablu Sarkar, General Secretary of the Rajshahi Metropolitan Awami League.
 
Critics have pointed to Jony’s active participation in the July 2024 political crackdown, commonly referred to as the “July Movement,” where student and youth-led demonstrations were violently suppressed in Rajshahi. Eyewitnesses and available footage allegedly place him at the forefront of pro-government counter-rallies and meetings during the period. For many, the brutality and repression of that period remain a source of painful memories.
 
What has further alarmed taekwondo professionals is Jony’s recent role as a referee in the player selection program for the South Asian Games (Pakistan). His involvement in such a high-stakes international selection process, despite his controversial background, has raised questions about the neutrality and integrity of the Bangladesh Taekwondo Federation’s decision-making and oversight.
 
“This is not just about one person. It is about the integrity of the sport. Involving a politically biased and controversial figure in both the ad-hoc committee and international athlete selection undermines the very foundation of fairness in sports,” said one senior taekwondo official on condition of anonymity.
 
A growing section of the sports community is urging the National Sports Council and the Bangladesh Taekwondo Federation to take immediate corrective measures. They argue that allowing politically affiliated individuals to influence or participate in critical organizational and competitive decisions compromises the federation’s reputation and the overall sporting environment.
 
Sports activists and enthusiasts alike are calling for transparency, neutrality, and professionalism in the administration of taekwondo and other sports disciplines in Bangladesh. They have appealed for swift action to ensure that the spirit of sports remains free from political interference.
 
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