Labor leaders believe new govt would not hand over Ctg port to foreign operator

Leaders of the Bandar Rokkha Sangram Parishad have urged the newly elected government not to hand over Chattogram Port to any foreign operator, saying the country's main seaport must remain under national control to safeguard economic and strategic interests.

They have been protesting against the government's decision to lease out the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to UAE-based operator DP World.

Earlier this month, they went on a seven-day strike, paralysing port operations to press their demand to cancel the lease decision.

Speaking to The Business Standard, coordinators of Chattogram Bandar Rokkha Sangram Parishad Ibrahim Khokan and Humayun Kabir said their first expectation from the new administration is to ensure justice, democracy, and equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social background.

"We want a Bangladesh where people receive the rights they are entitled to from the state. That is our primary expectation," one of the leaders said.

"Chattogram Port supports the entire economy. It is the economic lifeline of 18 crore people," they said, adding that although other ports exist, none functions at the same scale or efficiency.

The leaders said that they would hold a press conference on 16 or 17 February to announce the next course of action.

They argued that the Mongla Port and Payra Port face tidal limitations that slow vessel movement, while the Port of Chattogram has natural advantages allowing faster berthing.

They also noted that the Matarbari Port project is still limited in scope and primarily handles coal at this stage.

The labour leaders made it clear that they oppose any move to hand over operations to a foreign company, whether under a direct contract or other arrangements.

"We want the newly elected government to make a clear statement cancelling the decision to lease out the NCT. The CPA chairman and other officials involved in the leasing process must be withdrawn and brought to book," they said.

"The cases filed against labour leaders must be withdrawn, police harassment must be stopped, and the employees suspended over the movement must be reinstated," they added.

They called for reforms to address corruption within the port's management structure. According to them, irregularities occur at higher levels and should be tackled through stricter oversight rather than outsourcing operations.

"If there is corruption, the government should reduce it. Bring in companies through transparent processes, with clear conditions, so that no mafia group can enter," they said.

Their position is that the port must be run in a way that protects national sovereignty and public interest.

"This port belongs to the people of this country. Decisions taken now should not put it in risky hands," they added.

The leaders also criticised what they described as excessive control by officials from various forces and public administration bodies deputed to manage port affairs. They alleged that such officials wield disproportionate authority and often remain unaccountable.