Bangladesh plans to lease ports to foreign firms spark anger
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has decided to lease key trade terminals to foreign companies, raising questions about sovereignty, transparency and timing as Bangladesh prepares for new elections.
During a visit to Chattogram Port in May, Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced plans to hand over operations of the New Mooring Container Terminal to foreign companies. Despite being the "heart of Bangladesh's economy," the port has long been neglected, he said.
Yunus serves as the "chief adviser" — the head of the Bangladeshi administration appointed after veteran leader Sheikh Hasina was ousted in the August 2024 mass uprising. The interim government has pledged to focus on reforming the institutions, ensuring justice for past abuses,and organizing free and fair elections that would see it replaced with a democratically elected Cabinet. The polls are set to be held in February 2026.
