An esteemed economist, Anu Muhammad, has criticized the interim government for pursuing actions deemed detrimental to the nation’s interests by moving forward with a long-term concession deal with DP World, a port operator based in the UAE, to manage the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattogram Port.
Muhammad asserted that the interim government lacks the mandate and authority to engage in such agreements and is pushing forward hastily and through coercive tactics. He made these remarks during a solidarity gathering held in front of the National Museum in Dhaka’s Shahbagh, emphasizing that those elected in the recent parliamentary election should disclose the reasons and considerations behind the agreements made by the interim government against national interests.
He urged for transparency, accountability, and legal action against those involved in such deals to ensure justice. The event, organized by the Democratic Rights Committee, aimed to demand the cancellation of the agreement with DP World and show support for port workers who have initiated a work stoppage.
Muhammad criticized the NCT lease agreement, highlighting irregularities, lack of transparency, and the adverse impact on public and national interests. He argued that handing over the terminal to a foreign entity would lead to decreased revenue and increased costs for imports and exports, ultimately harming the economy.
The economist raised concerns about the opacity and irrationality surrounding multiple agreements, alleging that foreign interests were influencing decisions within the government. He emphasized the need for transparency and reassessment of agreements made during the previous administration to align with public interests.
Muhammad cautioned that such actions could jeopardize Bangladesh’s economic and political stability, emphasizing that the agreements did not align with the country’s actual requirements. He pointed out that Chattogram Port plays a crucial role in the nation’s trade, and placing it under foreign control could pose significant risks.
He questioned the urgency of finalizing the agreement just before the national election and raised suspicions about potential foreign pressures influencing the decision-making process. Muhammad called for a thorough evaluation of the deal to ensure it serves the country’s best interests and to avoid conflicts of interest or undue influence from external entities.
