Bangladesh’s economist Anu Muhammad criticized the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government for planning to sign a long-term concession agreement with UAE-based port operator DP World to manage the New Mooring Container Terminal at Chattogram Port. Muhammad accused the government of engaging in activities against national interest and raised concerns about the lack of transparency and coercion in the process.
Speaking at a rally in Dhaka, Anu Muhammad called for accountability from the government elected through the upcoming parliamentary election. He demanded a white paper to explain the agreements that he believes are detrimental to the country’s interests. The economist emphasized the need to prevent those responsible for such agreements from leaving the country and to ensure justice is served.
Anu Muhammad highlighted irregularities and lack of transparency in the NCT lease agreement process. He warned that handing over control of the terminal to a foreign company could result in decreased revenue and increased costs for imports and exports, negatively impacting the economy. The economist criticized the government for raising tariffs on goods to facilitate the agreement, which he believes will harm the country’s economic prospects.
Workers and employees at Chittagong Port protested the government’s decision to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal to DP World by initiating a work stoppage. The coordinators of the protest group announced an indefinite work stoppage, citing concerns about officials being pressured to sign the agreement. The ongoing demonstrations have intensified, leading to a stalemate between the protestors and the government.
