BGMEA demands 10 industrialists in upper house of next parliament

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan on Monday said that the next government must prioritise businesspeople in policymaking so at least ten prominent industrial owners must be included in the upper house of the next parliament.

He made the call while speaking at a view-exchange meeting with business people at Uttara Club in the capital. The meeting was presided over by former BGMEA president Kazi Moniruzzaman.

Babu said, "The upper house will comprise 100 members, with political parties nominating members proportionally. We will request that 10% of those seats go to business representatives — individuals not directly involved in politics."

He added, "If this proposal is implemented, the business community will be able to directly present its concerns and perspectives in parliament."

At the same event, Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group, demanded that the BGMEA president be given the rank of a minister.

Later, a press conference was held there by Shovon Islam, managing director of Sparrow Group.

Speaking there, BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan said, “The interim government is trying to push us into LDC graduation. But we are not ready yet. For Bangladesh to maintain sustainable growth during the graduation period, a cooperative, predictable, and stable policy environment is essential.”

The business leader also highlighted the existing crises in the garment sector, saying, “The government must ensure a good election and improve law-and-order conditions to revive the industry as it is passing through a challenging period.”

In the programme, business leaders strongly demanded the establishment of a democratic government to ensure business and economic stability in the country.