William Henry :
In a session marked by high turnout, spirited debate, and moments of tension, the Bangladesh Society USA, one of the oldest umbrella organizations representing Bangladeshi Americans, held its annual general meeting on Saturday evening at Queens Palace in Woodside.
Over 150 members gathered for the meeting, which was convened under tight private security due to expected disputes stemming from allegations against former leaders, financial concerns, and cemetery-related issues. The society currently has a membership base of 1,322.
Presided over by President Ataur Rahman Selim, and moderated by General Secretary Mohammad Ali, the meeting began with the recitation of the Qur’an, Gita reading, and a minute of silence in remembrance of martyrs. Religious readings were conducted by Jamil Ansari and Ganesh Kirtania. The event proceeded with the national anthem and welcome remarks from the president.
General Secretary Mohammad Ali and Treasurer Mofizul Islam Rumi presented the society’s annual report. According to the report, the organization earned $441,703 and spent $505,995 over the past year, with $71,382 remaining in the bank. The presentation of the financials sparked immediate discussion and heated exchanges between current and former leadership.
Accusations centered on former General Secretary Ruhul Amin Siddiqui, and various expenses incurred during the previous term. Mr. Siddiqui was later given the floor to respond to the allegations. The situation was defused following repeated calls for calm by the president.
Speakers included former presidents M.A. Aziz, Azmal Hossain Kunu, former general secretaries Fakhrul Alam, Mohammad Hossain Khan, and community figures like Prof. Rana Ferdous Chowdhury, Badrul Hossain Khan, and Trustee Board Chairman Shah Newaz. Several members expressed concerns over transparency, use of society funds, and adherence to constitutional norms.
In a notable moment, Shah Newaz reaffirmed his commitment to the organization’s goals, stating, “We will not take any action that harms the society.” He confirmed having already donated $125,000 toward a new building and pledged up to $2 million more if needed, assuring members that “the society will have its own building, Insha’Allah.”
Despite the controversies, a majority of members present voted in favor of adopting the financial reports, as called by President Selim. The evening concluded on a positive note with a community dinner, emphasizing reconciliation and unity.
While tensions were high, the general meeting ultimately reaffirmed the importance of community engagement, accountability, and collective vision for the future of the Bangladeshi-American diaspora.
