Left alliances warn of 'Jamuna siege' if move to hand over Ctg port to foreign firms not scrapped
Speakers said that since 92% of the country's exports and imports pass through Chattogram Port, foreign control could pose long-term economic and security risks
The Left Democratic Alliance and the Anti-Fascist Left Front have warned of launching a nationwide campaign, including a possible "siege" of the chief adviser's residence, Jamuna, later this month, if the government does not withdraw its initiative to allow foreign companies to manage the Chattogram Port.
The announcement was made at a rally held yesterday evening (8 November) at the Old Railway Station premises in Chattogram, organised by the district units of the two alliances.
The rally was presided over by Advocate Shafi Uddin Kabir Abid, coordinator of the Left Democratic Alliance and Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BSD-Marxist) Chattogram district unit.
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Speaking at the rally, BSD (Marxist) General Secretary Bazlur Rashid Firoz said the interim government had no mandate to hand over a key national asset to foreign operators.
He alleged that recent moves to raise port charges and hold discussions with multinational corporations reflected external influence, and claimed such steps could divert attention from the national election.
Communist Party of Bangladesh's former president Shah Alam said there was widespread public concern regarding foreign involvement in Chattogram Port. He stated that rising living costs and unemployment were already putting pressure on citizens, and argued that foreign management of the port could harm national interests.
Speakers said that since 92% of the country's exports and imports pass through Chattogram Port, foreign control could pose long-term economic and security risks.
They also criticised the recent 41% increase in port tariffs, saying it would increase costs across all sectors and place an additional burden on consumers.
The leaders questioned the absence of a National Port Policy despite more than five decades of independence, and said that capacity-building measures should precede any decision on management reform.
The rally concluded with a torch procession from the Old Railway Station to New Market.
The alliances announced a programme of protests and marches from 9 to 23 November. They warned that if their demands are not addressed, they may proceed with further actions later in the month, including a possible siege of Jamuna and a hartal.
Leaders from the Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad were also present in solidarity.
Other senior leaders, including Samyabadi Andolon Coordinator Shubhrangshu Chakraborty, Revolutionary Communist League General Secretary Iqbal Kabir Jahid, BSD (Marxist) Coordinator Masud Rana, Gonomukti Union Convener Nasir Uddin Nasu, Democratic Revolutionary Party General Secretary Mosharrafa Mishu, Bangladesh Socialist Party General Secretary Shahidul Islam, and BSD (Mahbub) leader Ayub Rana, addressed the gathering.
