The Left Democratic Alliance and the Anti-Fascist Left Front have issued a stern ultimatum to the interim government, demanding an immediate halt to the purported plan to lease sections of the lucrative Chattogram Port to foreign entities without a transparent process.
In a large public gathering at the Old Railway Station premises in the port city, the alliances warned of a potential “Jamuna Blockade” in late November, followed by a nationwide hartal (strike) if the government does not comply with their demands. The event was attended by a significant number of workers from the Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP).
Advocate Shafiuddin Kabir Abid, presiding over the rally on behalf of the Left Democratic Alliance, emphasized that the interim government lacks the authority to make crucial decisions regarding the nation’s economic backbone. Central leaders directly accused the government of working against the country’s interests.
Comrade Bazlur Rashid Firoz, the general secretary of Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal Central Committee, denounced the government’s actions, stating that the interim government should not be allowed to hand over a profitable port to foreign entities. He criticized the government’s eagerness to engage with foreign entities and the recent substantial increase in port charges as evidence of serving the interests of imperialist powers.
Former Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) president, Comrade Shah Alam, expressed dismay at the government’s persistence in pursuing the management of the port by foreign companies despite public opposition. He highlighted the numerous challenges faced by the working class and ordinary citizens due to the government’s focus on foreign interests over domestic issues.
Leaders emphasized the critical role of Chattogram Port in handling the majority of Bangladesh’s import and export trade, underscoring the importance of making decisions that safeguard the nation’s long-term economic and military security. They questioned the rationale behind transferring the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to foreign operators, pointing out the disparities in port depth compared to major ports like Singapore and Colombo.
Furthermore, leaders criticized the absence of a National Port Policy and raised concerns about the country’s failure to develop the necessary state capacity and infrastructure, such as dedicated transport corridors, akin to countries like Singapore and Vietnam.
The alliance also condemned the Chattogram police administration for imposing a ban on all meetings and assemblies in the port area for a month, likening the current administration’s approach to the “fascist language” of the previous regime. The rally culminated in a torch procession from the Old Railway Station to New Market.
A two-week nationwide protest schedule was announced, including demonstrations, public campaigns, and marches from November 9 to 23. If the government ignores their demands, a Jamuna Blockade will be staged later in November, with a nationwide hartal (strike) as a final action if necessary.