The Bangladeshi government has adopted a hardline stance in response to the ongoing strike at Chittagong Port, the country’s principal maritime gateway, officials have confirmed. Shipping and Maritime Affairs Adviser M. Sakhawat Hossain told reporters on Sunday at the Secretariat that a small group of individuals is attempting to hold the entire port hostage, prompting decisive government intervention.
“Certain elements are trying to paralyse port operations,” he stated. “In response, the government has resolved to take strict measures to ensure the port remains operational.”
The adviser noted that the port operator, DP World, has requested additional time to negotiate a contract. He added that discussions may continue even after the upcoming national elections if necessary.
Hossain highlighted the critical timing of the strike, which coincides with preparations for the national polls. “They are presenting new demands almost daily,” he said. “This is creating disruptions with the institute managing the port, and it falls under the Election Commission’s purview. I have formally requested the Chief Election Commissioner to oversee the situation. If elections are disrupted at this crucial economic hub, it could raise questions about the integrity of the entire country’s election process. The government is clear: we do not monitor elections, but we are committed to facilitating free and fair polls.”
The adviser also emphasised the impact on the population. “With Ramadan approaching, essential supplies such as lentils, pulses, and cooking oil are stranded on vessels,” he said. “Nearly 180 million people are effectively being held hostage by these disruptions. This is unacceptable.”
He confirmed that several individuals involved in obstructing port operations have already been detained, with further arrests expected. “If anyone attempts to interfere with port operations—directly or indirectly—they will be held accountable,” he warned.
Regarding DP World, Hossain clarified: “Negotiations with DP World are ongoing. They have formally requested more time, and since we are currently operating in complex conditions, additional time is required. If necessary, discussions will continue even after the elections.”
Key aspects of the situation are summarised below:
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Reason for Strike | Workers presenting new demands and disrupting port operations |
| Government Response | Hardline measures; arrests of obstructive individuals; port operations prioritised |
| Population Affected | Approximately 180 million people |
| Impact | Essential goods delayed; risk to election credibility; Ramadan supplies affected |
| DP World Negotiations | Ongoing; additional time requested; talks may continue post-election |
Hossain was also critical of the workers’ demands, calling them “highly unreasonable,” and expressed frustration at repeated calls for personnel changes and compensation demands. He emphasised that government priority is maintaining port operations to ensure uninterrupted supply chains and uphold the country’s economic stability.
Chittagong Port handles the majority of Bangladesh’s imports and exports, making its continuous functioning vital for the nation’s economy. The government’s decisive approach aims to prevent further disruption, particularly during Ramadan, and to safeguard both commerce and the integrity of forthcoming elections.