Sports Desk:

Bangladesh’s sporting landscape entered what many see as a new era on Tuesday as former national football team captain Aminul Haque officially took oath as the State Minister for Youth and Sports.

Just hours after being sworn in, Aminul addressed the media at his Mirpur office in the evening, outlining an ambitious vision to reform the country’s sports sector from top to bottom.

On his first day in office, the former legendary goalkeeper made it clear that he intends to keep sports completely free from political influence.

“I want to ensure that sports are not politicised or partisan. Those who truly love sports and are committed to the development of the sector should be given responsibilities in different areas,” he said.

Aminul also announced a strict “zero tolerance” stance on corruption in sports, stressing that accountability would be enforced across all federations, many of which have faced criticism over financial irregularities and governance shortcomings.

“I will tighten the reins on corruption with zero tolerance. There should be no doubt about that. No corruption in sports will be tolerated in the future,” he stated firmly.

Referring to controversies surrounding cricket board elections and unprofessional remarks by certain officials, he added that no one would be allowed to tarnish the image of athletes or sports organisers through irresponsible comments.

“Everyone must remain within the framework of accountability,” he warned.

In what could prove to be a landmark reform, the new minister revealed plans to make sports compulsory from Grade 4 under the national curriculum.

Five disciplines will initially be included, with cricket and football set to feature prominently.

The remaining three sports will be chosen based on Bangladesh’s potential to succeed at international events such as the Asian Games and the Olympics.

“If we start nurturing talent from the grassroots level, we will see long-term results. I want us to be on the right track,” he said.

The government also plans to strengthen grassroots infrastructure by appointing sports personnel nationwide.

Across the country’s approximately 148,000 educational institutions, physical education teachers will be recruited in phases.

Each of the 495 upazilas will have one sports officer and 15 sports teachers, with around 7,920 teachers to be appointed in the first phase.

Former athletes and individuals with sports backgrounds will receive priority in recruitment.

Ensuring financial security and social dignity for athletes is another key priority for Aminul.

Under the slogan “If sports becomes a profession, families will gain confidence,” he proposed bringing national team players from all federations under a structured government pay scale.

“If our athletes are well, our sports sector will be well. A healthy environment depends on the well-being of our players,” he said.

Football however, remains closest to his heart.

Reflecting on Bangladesh’s title drought, Aminul recalled the 2003 SAFF Championship triumph and the gold medal at the 2010 South Asian Games, achievements that remain highlights in the country’s men’s football history.

Since then, major international success has been scarce, although he praised the accomplishments of the women’s team in recent years.

Expressing hope that Bangladesh could host the SAFF Championship in the future and reclaim the regional crown, he said: “I am a football person, and I have a special attachment to the game. From my side and from the government’s side, we will do everything necessary to ensure we perform well in the upcoming SAFF. I want to bring back the golden days of our football together with all of you.”