I only presided over Ilias Kanchan’s oath: Misha Sawdagar

The newly elected members of the Bangladesh Film Artistes' Association took part in the oath-taking ceremony at BFDC yesterday. Recently disqualified general secretary elect Zayed Khan did not attend the programme. However, former President Misha Sawdagar was there to gracefully hand over his former position to Ilias Kanchan, at the ceremony.

Recently, Misha Sawdagar spoke to The Daily Star about the elections and more.

Yesterday, people were quite surprised to see you presiding over the oath-taking ceremony, as you were from the opposing panel.

I was not informed about the oath-taking ceremony. Kanchan bhai called me and I didn't want to disrespect him. After reaching the BFDC, they told me since there are some controversies surrounding the Election Commissioner, I could officiate at the oath-taking ceremony. Alamgir bhai was also there, among others. They have seen that I only presided over Ilias Kanchan's oath, not over Nipun's or anyone else's.

Do you have any objection regarding losing the election?

I have said earlier that even if I lose, I will work with Kanchan bhai. After all, we are all artistes. I don't have any negativity towards the results.

After the election, a lot of conspiracies and chaos were created about the General Secretary's position. What are your comments on that?

Since the matter has now gone to the High Court, I don't want to comment. I want all of us to work for the welfare of the film fraternity, by coming up with a fair solution.