The Ministry of Commerce has announced a four-month extension for Md Anwar Hossain, the current administrator of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). His new term will last until 16th June. This decision was formalised through an official order issued by the Trade Organization Division of the ministry.
Md Anwar Hossain, who also serves as the vice-chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), was first appointed as the BGMEA administrator on 20th October for a four-month period following significant unrest within the organisation. The Ministry’s letter regarding the extension stated that despite the announcement of an election schedule, Hossain requested more time, citing challenges in initiating and completing the electoral process within the original timeframe.
The extension comes with two stipulations: the BGMEA Board of Directors election must adhere to the organisation’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, and the election must be finalised at least 15 days before the end of the extended term to ensure a seamless transition to the newly elected board.
Tensions have been high within the BGMEA, primarily between two main alliances: Sammilito Parishad and Forum. Following a political shift on 5th August of last year, leaders from the Forum alliance called for the resignation of the BGMEA president and board members. Subsequently, on 7th August, Forum submitted a memorandum expressing their lack of confidence in the board, leading to violent clashes between Forum and Sammilito Parishad supporters.
On 19th August, Forum sent a letter to the Trade Organization Division’s director general, alleging irregularities during the March 2023 elections and calling for the dissolution of the current board. The ministry responded after two and a half months, dissolving the board and appointing an administrator on 20th October.
Sammilito Parishad has maintained a stronghold on BGMEA leadership, winning nearly all elections over the past 15 years. Key figures from this alliance include former commerce minister Tipu Munshi, former Dhaka North City Mayor Atiqul Islam, and ex-MPs Abdus Salam Murshedi and Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin.
In the March 2023 elections, Sammilito Parishad secured all positions, with Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League General Secretary SM Mannan elected as president. However, since the political upheaval on 5th August, Mannan has been absent from public view, and he is currently facing a murder charge.
