Newly appointed State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque has pledged to implement the commitments outlined in the BNP election manifesto, aiming to transform Bangladesh’s sports sector through structured reforms and long-term planning.
Speaking immediately after taking oath on Tuesday, February 17, the former national football star expressed gratitude for the responsibility and sought cooperation from all stakeholders. “Our goal will be to implement the promises we made regarding sports,” he said.
Unlike many past appointments where individuals with little direct connection to sports were given the portfolio, Aminul brings firsthand experience from the field. Having transitioned to politics from professional football, he maintained close involvement with sports even during periods of political hardship under the previous Awami League government.
Following the political developments after August 5, 2024, Aminul began outlining plans for sports reform. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman reportedly encouraged his vision, and despite losing the parliamentary election, Aminul was appointed under the technocrat quota and entrusted with the sports ministry.
The BNP manifesto presents an ambitious roadmap to elevate sports from a recreational activity to a sustainable profession. Key proposals include making sports compulsory from the fourth grade, introducing scholarships for promising athletes aged 12–14 under the ‘New Bud Sports’ initiative, building quality indoor stadiums in 495 upazilas, and establishing sports villages in all 64 districts.
The party has also pledged to expand BKSP branches to every divisional city, ensure adequate playgrounds in metropolitan and rural areas, support athletes with special needs, and develop a domestic sports equipment industry. Addressing the shortage of fields, the manifesto promises ward-based playgrounds, recovery of encroached grounds, and initiatives to build shared facilities between wards where feasible.
To strengthen Bangladesh’s international competitiveness, plans include establishing a modern National Olympic Academy and improving preparation for major events such as the South Asian Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Olympic Games.
The manifesto further proposes launching professional leagues in basketball, volleyball, chess and other sports, alongside expanding the sports economy and promoting sports diplomacy. Establishing a modern sports university is also part of the broader reform agenda.