Bangladesh employees protest interim government's new law

Dhaka

Protests resumed at Bangladesh’s Secretariat on Thursday as government officials and employees demanded the repeal of the controversial Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance, enacted by the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.

Calling the new rule a “black law,” members of the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees Unity Forum threatened to escalate their demonstrations if the ordinance is not withdrawn. The protest follows similar demonstrations held last month at the Secretariat in Dhaka.

Forum leaders Badiul Kabir and Nurul Islam led Thursday’s protest. “We demand repeal of this black law. We also ask for a 50 per cent dearness allowance and the removal of officials linked to fascist practices,” said Islam.

The forum also criticized law advisor Asif Nazrul, who claimed he was abroad when the ordinance was passed. Secretary-General Mujahidul Islam Selim questioned Nazrul’s role and warned that peaceful protesters were being provoked.

Nazrul admitted that parts of the law could lead to harassment of employees and suggested there is “room for reconsideration.” He clarified that although the law was processed by the law ministry, it was drafted by the Ministry of Public Administration.

Passed on May 22 by the interim council of advisors, the amended ordinance allows punishment for government staff if they disobey orders, skip work without leave, or block others’ duties. Punishments include demotion, removal, or dismissal.

The forum has called for a mass rally at Badamtala if the government does not act soon. Protesters insist the ordinance is unjust and unconstitutional, and say they will continue their movement until the law is scrapped.