Historic Rohingya Election Establishes Camp Leadership

The five elected representatives (Photo: Social Media)

Arakan Now | 17 August 2025

The Rohingya community in Bangladesh's refugee camps has organised a structured election to choose representatives for the first time in eights years. 

Five leaders have been elected to represent the community both within the camps and on the international stage. After years of exclusion from formal political rights in Myanmar and life under restrictions in Bangladesh, community members say the election marks an important step toward self-governance, dignity and collective decision-making.

The elected representatives are Mv. Sayed Ullah, Mr. Khin Maung, Mr. Jahingir Alom, Mr Showife, and Mrs. Sajeda Begum. 

Under the agreed system, each leader will rotate as President for six months, ensuring equal participation and shared responsibility in camp affairs. The first term has begun with Mv Sayed Ullah assuming the presidency.

Speaking to Arakan Now, Rohingya leader Khin Maung said: 

“It is historic for our community to be represented internationally with stakeholders, such as UN, and others . There will be many benefits if we use this opportunity wisely. We no longer need to say that we don’t have leaders.”

“Our mandate is to engage with international stakeholders, maintain peace in the camps and prioritise education .One of the main objectives is to ensure we can return home with rights, dignity and equality. There are also Congress and executive committees, and we collectively decide how to move forward,” he added.