BGMEA polls: Sammilito Parishad panel introduced in Ctg

The Sammilito Parishad, a panel of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) polls for 2024-2026 term, introduced their candidates at an event in Chattogram on Saturday. 

Former president Rubana Huq-backed panel - Forum - is also contesting for 35 posts at the polls slated on 9 March. 

All the 35 candidates of Sammilito Parishad, including SM Mannan (Kochi), the president candidate, were introduced at the event held at a hotel in the port city. 

BGMEA President Faruque Hassan, who is backing the parishad, joined it alongside former presidents and leaders. 

Addressing the audience, the speakers at the event lauded the illustrious history, achievements, and future prospects of the combined council in the apparel industry. 

They highlighted the significant contributions of panel leader SM Mannan (Kochi) and underscored the dedicated roles played by other candidates across diverse facets of the industry.

During the panel briefing, speakers raised the issue of harassment faced by garment owners from customs officials, particularly with regard to bond licences. 

They suggested the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to explore alternative ways 

to curb duty evasion and streamline its taxing process.

Faruque Hassan urged BGMEA members to vote for their candidates to sustain the industry's upward trajectory.

Prominent figures including Members of Parliament Anisul Islam Mahmud, Abdus Salam, and Khosru Chowdhury, along with former BGMEA president SM Fazlul Haque, Mostofa Golam Quddus, former leaders SM Abu Tayyab, Nasir Uddin, among others, also vowed for the panel's success in the upcoming polls. 

In his remarks, SM Mannan (Kochi) expressed his commitment to fostering sustainability in the garment industry through a blend of experience and youthful energy.