The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society has plunged deeper into a state of deadlock, as allegations of irregularities and authoritarian behavior against Chairman Professor Dr. Azizul Islam continue to mount. The organization’s Vice Chairman has now resigned, following earlier resignations by Treasurer Advocate Aminul Islam, members Barrister Tanim Hossain Shawon, and Dr. Mahmuda Alam Mitu. With a series of resignations in quick succession, the board has effectively lost the quorum required to make official decisions.
Despite instructions from the Ministry of Health, Chairman Dr. Azizul Islam convened a board meeting on November 2 with only five members present—mostly his close associates—where several decisions were reportedly taken.
On the same day, in violation of institutional rules, the chairman issued a letter extending the tenure of Deputy Secretary-General Sultan Ahmed, whose term had already expired. According to the society’s regulations, such a decision requires board approval. Strikingly, Sultan Ahmed tendered his resignation the very next day, deepening the ongoing internal crisis within the Red Crescent.
Multiple sources at the Ministry of Health confirmed that the government has decided to dissolve the current board, following continued resignations, allegations of irregularities, and administrative paralysis. According to the sources, on November 4 a proposal was sent to the President for approval—signed by Health Adviser Noorjahan Begum—recommending the formation of a new five-member board, headed by a retired female secretary. The ministry is also considering forming an internal inquiry committee to investigate the allegations of corruption and abuse of power.
Following the wave of resignations, Chairman Dr. Azizul Islam reportedly went to the Ministry of Health on November 5 to seek an audience with Adviser Noorjahan Begum, but was denied a meeting, a ministry source confirmed.
When contacted for comment, Red Crescent Chairman Professor Dr. Azizul Islam declined to make any statement. Health Adviser Noorjahan Begum also refused to comment on the matter.
The Red Crescent Society has long been plagued by irregularities, political influence, and misuse of authority. The organization—known for its humanitarian response during disasters—has faced instability since the formation of a new board on August 5, 2024. Following Dr. Azizul Islam’s appointment as chairman, allegations surfaced regarding irregular recruitment, reinstatement of officials accused of corruption, reversal of disciplinary actions against perpetrators of sexual harassment, politically motivated transfers and promotions, and suppression of volunteers and staff.
In October, officers, employees, and volunteers staged a week-long protest against these irregularities. Although the movement was subdued, discontent within the board intensified. Subsequently, the resignation of the vice chairman, treasurer, and two other members has rendered the board practically nonfunctional.