BGMEA voices concerns over legal cases against RMG owners

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has voiced concerns about the impact of recent legal cases on the garment industry.

Speaking at a press conference in the capital yesterday (15 May), Faruque Hassan, a former BGMEA president, said the filing of numerous cases following the government changeover on 5 August, which implicated even businessmen with relatively clean reputations, has negatively affected both business operations and the confidence of international buyers.

"We have already discussed the matter with the relevant authorities to ensure that businesses not involved in any crime do not face harassment," he said during the press conference where leaders of his panel, Sammilita Parishad, outlined their stance ahead of the upcoming BGMEA elections.

Quazi Moniruzzaman, another former BGMEA president and the current president of Sammilita Parishad, said that there was an anarchic situation after 5 August, during which the names of several businessmen appeared in various cases. "However, these cases will be resolved through due process. And currently, they are not facing any hurdles to operate their businesses."

Their remarks stem from the period following the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, when hundreds of cases were filed against individuals alleged to have attacked protesters. They alleged that numerous individuals with clean reputations, including industry owners, were named as defendants, and that many of these cases were motivated by personal, business, or financial interests.

Moniruzzaman also said, "In the past, business leaders have engaged in factionalism and shameless flattery", adding, "If our panel, Sammilita Parishad, comes to power through the elections, we will take all necessary steps to put an end to such practices and prevent money laundering abroad."

At the press conference, it was also announced that Sammilita Parishad's major agenda includes digital transformation of the BGMEA, one-stop services for members, training and financial support for new entrepreneurs, a sustainable development plan for SME factories, increased use of renewable energy (particularly solar), and strengthening the Made in Bangladesh branding.

Chaity Group Managing Director Abul Kalam, Sparrow Group Managing Director Mustazirul Shovon Islam and other candidates from the Sammilita Parishad panel were also present.