BGMEA, BKMEA presidents likely to resign

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President SM Mannan Kochi and Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) President Salim Osman have decided to step down from their positions, according to sources.

Wishing anonymity, a senior business leader who is a member of both BGMEA and BKMEA said, “Kochi and Salim had a good relationship with Sheikh Hasina. However, with the current situation, both have gone into hiding.

“In light of this, general members have asked them to resign from their positions, and both have decided to comply with this demand.”

The change may become apparent within the next two days, he added.

He also said BGMEA Senior Vice President Khandaker Rafiqul Islam is likely to be elected as the new president, while BKMEA Executive President Mohammad Hatem is likely to succeed Salim.

Kochi was elected as the BGMEA president on 14 March this year for the 2024-26 term. He is also the general secretary of the Dhaka North City Awami League. 

Following the ouster of Awami League government on 5 August, several cases, including one for murder, have been filed against Kochi. 

However, the BGMEA chief, currently in Singapore for his son’s treatment, has denied any involvement in the violence.

Earlier on Tuesday (20 August), the Forum, the opposition panel of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), called for the dissolution of the current board and the establishment of an interim committee to oversee a free, fair, and credible election for the trade body.

According to a letter submitted to the commerce ministry, addressed to the commerce adviser, the forum alleged that the BGMEA election held in February this year was marred by irregularities, heavily influenced by the Sheikh Hasina-led government.

Ministry officials stated that the application was submitted to Dr Naznin Kawser Chowdhury, the newly appointed Director General of DTO at the Commerce Ministry.

They also indicated that if the president does not step down, the ministry may consider appointing an administrator to the association.