The Ministry of Commerce has extended the tenure of Md Anwar Hossain, the administrator of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), for another four months.

He will remain in charge until June 16.

The Trade Organization Division of the Commerce Ministry issued an official order extending his term.

Md Anwar Hossain, the Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), was initially appointed as administrator on October 20 for four months following a mass uprising.

The Commerce Ministry’s letter regarding the extension stated that although an election schedule was announced, the administrator sought an extension, citing the inability to initiate and complete the electoral process within the stipulated time due to various reasons.

The extension comes with two conditions:

The election to the BGMEA Board of Directors must be conducted as per the organisation’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.

The election must be completed at least 15 days before the end of the extended term, ensuring a smooth handover to the elected board.

Tensions Between Rival Factions

BGMEA has two main election-centric alliances -- Sammilito Parishad and Forum. Following the political shift on August 5, Forum leaders demanded the resignation of the BGMEA president and board members.

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On August 7, Forum submitted a memorandum to the acting president, expressing no confidence in the board. That same day, clashes broke out between Forum leaders and Sammilito Parishad supporters.

Later, on August 19, Forum sent a letter to the Director General of the Trade Organization Division, alleging irregularities in the March 2023 elections and demanding the dissolution of the board.

After two and a half months, the ministry acted, dissolving the board and appointing an administrator on October 20.

Sammilito Parishad’s Dominance and Leadership Crisis

Sammilito Parishad has dominated BGMEA leadership, winning all but one election in the last 15 years. Its notable leaders include former Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, former Dhaka North City Mayor Atiqul Islam, ex-MPs Abdus Salam Murshedi and Shafiul Islam Mohiuddin, and Awami League’s Industry and Commerce Secretary Siddiqur Rahman.

In the March 2023 elections, Sammilito Parishad secured all positions, with Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League General Secretary SM Mannan elected as president.

Since Sheikh Hasina’s fall on August 5, Mannan has not been seen in public.

A murder case has also been filed against him.