The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) is facing intense backlash after appointing a controversial 10-member support committee on October 24, 2024. The committee was formed to assist the government-appointed administrator, Md Anwar Hossain, in overseeing operations, ensuring fair elections within 120 days, and reforming the voter list.

Among the five members representing Sammilita Parishad, a traditional BGMEA panel, two individuals—Miran Ali and ANM Saifuddin—have sparked outrage. Both face serious allegations, including crimes against humanity, allegedly linked to the July uprising that involved the killing of students. Public outrage has intensified, with critics accusing the new administrator of harboring authoritarian intentions. The five Sammilita Parishad representatives include: Shahidullah Azim, MD of Classic Fashion Concept, Miran Ali, MD of Misami Garments, Asif Ashraf, MD of Urmi Garments, ANM Saifuddin, MD of MS Wearing Apparels, Shams Mahmood, MD of Shasha Garments.

Of these members, Miran Ali has become a focal point of controversy. A case was filed against him on September 12, 2024, at Uttara West Police Station, listing him as the 14th accused in the killing of students during the July protests. Saifuddin’s appointment has raised further questions, as his company, MS Wearing Apparels, reportedly ceased operations in 2008.

Saifuddin’s deep ties to political elites have added to the controversy. His close associations with Mayor Atiqul Islam, former MP Abdus Salam Murshedy, and ex-BGMEA President Md Siddiqur Rahman suggest political maneuvering behind his inclusion.

Saifuddin is widely accused of extortion and misconduct. During the implementation of the Accord on Fire and Building Safety, he allegedly exploited factory owners by threatening closures, using his connections to renew BGMEA registrations with questionable legitimacy. His appointment has drawn criticism from within the garment industry, where he is viewed as a corporate extortionist with no real stake in the sector.

The newly appointed administrator denied prior knowledge of the cases against Miran Ali and declined to elaborate on Saifuddin’s selection. He invited further inquiries to his office but did not clarify his position on the growing unrest.

Frustration is mounting among BGMEA members. Some have threatened protests if the accused individuals are not removed from the committee, warning that demonstrations could escalate to blockades at the administrator’s office.

Attempts to reach both Miran Ali and ANM Saifuddin have been unsuccessful, with their phones reportedly switched off. This has fueled speculation that they may have fled to avoid public backlash.

The turmoil follows the October 20 dissolution of the BGMEA Board of Directors by the Vice Chairman of the Export Development Bureau (EPB). On October 23, Md Anwar Hossain assumed the role of administrator, only to announce the contentious support committee the next day.

The inclusion of individuals accused of heinous crimes in the committee has cast a dark shadow over the BGMEA’s governance, leaving industry leaders and the public questioning whether justice and transparency will prevail.