On Tuesday 5th March 2024, in a landmark event, simultaneous elections for the term 2023-2025 of the ATAB organization were conducted across Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. The polling in Dhaka commenced at 9:00 am and concluded at 5:00 pm at the Police Convention Hall. Notable observers, including Jinnat Rehana, Director General (Joint Secretary) of Trade Organizations, Ministry of Commerce, MM Mostafa Jamal Chowdhury and Mohammad Moshiur Rahman, Deputy Secretaries from the same ministry, closely monitored the election process along with directors from FBCCI and other observers.
The enthusiastic election, which saw active participation, culminated with the counting of votes in the presence of the Election Board, FBCCI counting assistants, candidates, and their agents.
The ATAB Democratic Front, led by Abdus Salam Aref and Afsia Jannat Saleh, secured a sweeping victory by winning all 17 positions in Dhaka, 6 in Chittagong, and 6 in Sylhet, totaling 29 EC member posts. Additionally, in the Regional Committee Elections, the ATAB Democratic Front secured 15 seats in Dhaka, 6 in Chittagong, and 6 in Sylhet.
In a historic turn of events, Abdus Salam Aref is set to become the youngest president in ATAB’s history, leading the panel, while Afsia Jannat Saleh is poised to become the organization’s first woman Secretary General.
Following the announcement of results, leaders of the ATAB Democratic Front promptly expressed their commitment to realizing “Smart ATAB” and implementing their declared program. The newly elected leaders were warmly welcomed by current ATAB members and supporters, who greeted them with grand garlands in celebration of the historic victory.
