Husneara Choudhury | New York
The election for the Executive Committee of the New York Bangladeshi American Lions Club for the 2026–2027 term was held in a festive, peaceful, and transparent atmosphere. The election took place on Tuesday at Gulshan Terrace Party Hall in Woodside, Queens, where a large turnout of club members was observed.
According to club sources, out of a total of 224 eligible voters, 212 members cast their votes, resulting in a turnout of 94.64 percent. This reflects strong member engagement and confidence in the democratic process. Voting began at 6:00 PM and continued until 10:15 PM, after which the vote counting process began and concluded around 5:00 AM with the official announcement of results.
In the presidential race, JFM Russell secured victory with 120 votes. His closest rival, Mohammad Hasan Jilani, received 89 votes.
For the Secretary position, Masud Rana Topon was elected with 138 votes, while his opponent Golam N. Haider Mukut received 70 votes.
In the Vice President race, Mohammad Ruhul Amin (115 votes) and Mohammad Jasim (101 votes) were announced. For Joint Secretary, Mohammad AB Siddique won with 117 votes. For Organizing Secretary, Tamal Hossain secured victory with 128 votes.
From 19 candidates contesting for Director positions, 15 were elected. The elected Directors are: Lion Mofizur Rahman, Lion Nargis Rahman, Lion Shah J. Choudhury, Lion Shahnaz Hossain, Lion Krishna Khan Tithi, Lion Abul Kashem Choudhury, Lion Belal Ahmed, Lion Suman Mahmud, Lion M. A. Zaman, Lion Daisy Yasmin, Lion Arif Choudhury, Lion ATM Helalur Rahman, Lion Asadur Rahman, Lion Mohammad Hossain Azad, and Lion Shah Shahidul Haque.
The Election Commission was led by Chief Election Commissioner Lion Amena Nowaz. She was assisted by Commissioners Lion Muhammad Syed, Lion Rocky Aleyan (MJF), Lion Mohammad Ali, and Lion Nurul Azim. Their collective professionalism, neutrality, and dedication ensured a smooth and well-organized election process.
One of the most notable aspects of the election was the active presence of Lion Shah Newaz, PMJF—Shah Newaz. He remained present throughout the election process, from the beginning of voting until the announcement of results, engaging with candidates and voters in a festive atmosphere and encouraging all participants.
He stated, “This club belongs to all of us. In Lions, winning or losing is not the main issue—what matters is that we move forward together and make this club stronger and more successful.” He also extended congratulations and gratitude to all candidates and members.
After the results were announced, both winning and losing candidates congratulated one another, demonstrating a strong example of unity and mutual respect through warm embraces and handshakes. All members reaffirmed their commitment to work together for the betterment of the club and the wider community.
This election stands not only as a leadership selection process but also as a shining example of unity, democratic practice, and community harmony within the Bangladeshi diaspora in the United States.
Photos: Photos by photojournalist Neher Siddiquee
