Chittagong C&F Agents’ election faces controversy

In the upcoming tri-annual election of the Chittagong C&F Agents Association, the 'Samamona' panel is allegedly facing obstruction in collecting and submitting nomination papers. A group is attempting to prevent a fair electoral process by resorting to intimidation tactics, including bringing in outsiders and covering CCTV cameras with black tape to suppress evidence of misconduct.

At a press conference held at a restaurant in Agrabad on Thursday, Kazi Mahmud Imam Bilu, the elected General Secretary for 2022-2024, raised concerns over these issues.

“The Chittagong Customs Agents Association has upheld democratic electoral practices for the past 50 years, earning nationwide recognition. However, on January 27, 29, and again today (January 30), members associated with the so-called ‘Greater C&F Agent Unity Panel’ brought in outsiders and created an atmosphere of intimidation. Their actions prevented our 'Samamona' panel members from collecting nomination papers, marking a disturbing shift away from the organization’s democratic traditions,” he said.

Referring to the CCTV incidents, Bilu said, “Over the past two days, attempts were made to cover all CCTV cameras at the C&F Tower with black tape, clearly to conceal illegal activities. The 'Samamona' panel has long earned the trust of nearly 2,800 registered members through fair elections. Rather than participating democratically, these individuals are attempting to derail the process through coercion.”

“The repeated humiliation of our panel leaders attempting to collect nomination papers is a deliberate attempt to suppress democratic rights. This troubling trend poses a serious threat to the business community and undermines the professional dignity of our members. We urge the Director and Registrar of Trade Unions, the Labor Department, and the Election Commission to take immediate action to ensure a fair election,” he said.

Several members who allegedly faced harassment during the nomination process also spoke at the event. 

Advocate Omar Farooq shared his experience, stating, “When I went to collect my nomination papers, I saw an individual named Saiful taking away forms collected by others. When I asked if he would take mine as well, he refused to respond.”

Similarly, Partha Protim Barua recounted, “While attempting to collect my nomination papers, some individuals tried to snatch my mobile phone and misbehaved with me. They brought in outsiders to intimidate us, but fortunately, other leaders from our panel arrived to support me before the situation escalated further.”

When asked whether they plan to take legal action or initiate protests over these issues, Bilu said, “We want all parties involved to prioritize a fair election process. Considering the country’s economic interests, we do not wish to initiate any disruptive programs.To protect the reputation of the Chittagong C&F Agents Association, we are refraining from taking legal measures at this time.”