The Forum, an alliance contesting the BGMEA (Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association) election, has announced a 14-point manifesto aimed at building a sustainable garment sector. If elected to BGMEA leadership, the Forum pledges to support SME and non-bonded industries, formulate a comprehensive exit policy for struggling factories, and work closely with the government to tackle tariff wars.
Ahead of the election, BGMEA organized a candidate introduction event on Saturday afternoon at the BGMEA building in Uttara, Dhaka. During the event, the Forum unveiled its election manifesto. Panel leader Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu presented the manifesto in front of journalists and garment industry owners. Forum President Abdus Salam, General Secretary Dr. Rashid Ahmed Hossaini, Chief Election Coordinator Faisal Samad, and other candidates were present.
Election Board Chairman Mohammad Iqbal presided over the event, which was also attended by former presidents Anisur Rahman Sinha and Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury Parvez.
In his speech, Mahmud Hasan Khan said, “The garment industry is not just a business—it’s a reflection of our labor, sacrifice, and dreams. In today’s context, BGMEA cannot limit itself to just providing certificates and documents. We need leadership that dives deep into problems and finds solutions. BGMEA must take on the responsibility of branding Bangladesh globally.”
The manifesto states that today’s SMEs are tomorrow’s major industries. Therefore, if elected, the Forum will prioritize small, medium, and non-bonded factories. Their focus is on serving the interests of factories, owners, and workers alike. They plan to collaborate with the government to create an exit policy that protects everyone’s interests.
In their promises to owners, the alliance proposes a special fund for times of crisis. They also vow to engage in policy development and diplomatic efforts with the government to overcome tariff wars and LDC graduation challenges. Measures to resolve customs and banking issues are also included.
The 14-point manifesto includes proposals to:
Establish a separate ministry for the garment sector
Ensure fair pricing from buyers
Expand into new markets
Form regional crisis response cells
Take a strong stand against unethical pressure from buyers
Panel leader Mahmud Hasan Khan emphasized, “We want to build a transparent and effective BGMEA by staying connected with our members. If elected, directors will be assigned to specific factories to support them in times of need. Additionally, we must prepare our workforce to face future challenges.”
The Forum also completed its candidate introduction session with general members. During the event, the panel leader introduced his team to the audience.
According to the Forum, the alliance has chosen experienced, visionary, and young entrepreneurs keeping in mind the challenges of the future garment sector. The candidate list includes SME entrepreneurs and emphasizes female leadership. The Forum has committed to restoring BGMEA’s lost reputation and image if elected.
They have submitted a full panel with 35 candidates—26 in Dhaka and 9 in Chattogram—and have been allotted ballot numbers 1 to 35.
