The Bangladeshi government has resolved to adopt a hard-line stance in response to the ongoing strike at Chittagong Port, one of the country’s most vital trade hubs. Naim Transport Advisor, M. Sakhawat Hossain, confirmed the government’s position during a press briefing at the Secretariat on Sunday.
“Certain groups are attempting to hold the entire port hostage,” Hossain stated. “For this reason, the government has decided to act decisively.”
The port strike, which has disrupted operations critical to the import and export of essential goods, has coincided with the approach of the national election, heightening concerns over its potential impact on broader civic processes. Hossain highlighted that the striking workers are making new, increasingly unreasonable demands, further complicating the situation. “It is now a matter for the Election Commission. If the election at the port is not conducted properly, questions will arise about the integrity of the entire national process. We, the government, are clear that we are not monitoring elections, but we are committed to ensuring free, fair, and impartial voting,” he said.
Hossain further underscored the humanitarian impact of the strike. “With Ramadan approaching, we cannot allow 180 million people to be effectively held hostage. Critical goods including chickpeas, lentils, and edible oil are currently stuck on outer vessels while routine port operations have been stalled. This situation is unacceptable and cannot continue.”
The government has already detained several individuals responsible for instigating the disruption and indicated that further arrests are expected if any party obstructs the port’s functioning. “We hope this action will restore port operations promptly,” Hossain added.
On the issue of DP World, the international terminal operator with which negotiations are ongoing, Hossain clarified that discussions remain unresolved. “DP World has requested additional time to finalise agreements. Negotiations may continue even after the elections if necessary. They have formally communicated this in writing to the Chief Advisor,” he said.
Summary of Chittagong Port Situation
| Aspect | Current Status | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Strike | Ongoing | Disruption of port operations |
| Impacted Goods | Chickpeas, lentils, edible oil, other essentials | Affecting 180 million people |
| Government Action | Hard-line approach, arrests made | Legal enforcement to restore operations |
| DP World Negotiations | Discussions ongoing | May continue post-election |
| Political Context | National elections imminent | Potential influence on electoral processes |
Hossain dismissed the striking workers’ demands as “highly frivolous,” noting that calls for personnel replacements, compensation, and other unilateral concessions are impractical. “We cannot allow the whims of a few to compromise the livelihoods of millions,” he emphasised.
The government’s firm stance represents a significant effort to restore normalcy to Bangladesh’s busiest seaport, while ensuring that national election processes remain unaffected. Authorities have made it clear that any further disruptions will be met with decisive action.
