In a significant development within Bangladesh’s garment industry, Presidents SM Mannan Kochi of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Salim Osman of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) are reportedly stepping down from their roles, according to sources.
A senior business leader, who requested anonymity, revealed that both Kochi and Salim had maintained strong ties with Sheikh Hasina, but recent political upheaval has forced them into hiding. “Given the current circumstances, general members have urged them to resign, and they have chosen to honor this request,” the source stated, noting that these changes could become public within the next two days.
Opposition Calls for BGMEA Board’s Dissolution
The BGMEA opposition panel, known as the Forum, has intensified its demands, calling for the dissolution of the current board and the formation of an interim committee to facilitate a fair and transparent election for the trade body. This demand was formally submitted to the Ministry of Commerce, accusing the previous election held in February of being compromised by irregularities under the influence of the Sheikh Hasina-led government.
Ministry insiders confirmed that the petition was delivered to Dr. Naznin Kawser Chowdhury, the newly appointed Director General of the Department of Trade Organizations (DTO). They also hinted that if Kochi does not voluntarily step down, the government might intervene by appointing an administrator to lead the association.
Leadership Transition Expected
It is anticipated that BGMEA Senior Vice President Khandaker Rafiqul Islam may assume the presidency, while BKMEA Executive President Mohammad Hatem is likely to take over Salim’s position. Kochi, who was elected as BGMEA president in March for the 2024-26 term and also serves as the general secretary of the Dhaka North City Awami League, is currently in Singapore for his son’s medical treatment. He has denied any involvement in the violence that led to his legal troubles following the ouster of the Awami League government on August 5.