Dhaka, May 3 -- The Shilpakala Academy is grappling with a leadership vacuum and an inactive governing board following the resignation of Director General Syed Jamil Ahmed in late February.

Jamil Ahmed cited "bureaucratic complexities" and "interference" from the cultural advisor as reasons for stepping down.

Two months later, the academy remains without a leader possessing the vision and expertise of Ahmed. No board meetings have been convened since his departure.

Secretary Mohammad Wares Hossain has been appointed acting director general, with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs effectively steering the institution's operations.

While activities at Shilpakala have continued, council member, actor, and theater director Azad Abul Kalam d...