Brig Gen (Retd) M Sakhawat Hossain, adviser to the interim government’s Ministries of Shipping, Labour, and Employment, has declared his unwavering support for workers’ rightful demands.
He also expressed his readiness to take personal risks to resolve workers’ crises and challenges.
Dr Hossain made these remarks on Wednesday (27 November) at a stakeholder workshop held at a hotel in Dhaka.
The event focused on finalising operational, training, and research policies for the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety.
“I am committed to addressing workers' issues and resolving their crises. I stand firmly by their rightful demands and request a little time to deliver on them. If taking personal risks is required, I am prepared to do so,” he stated during the workshop.
Highlighting global practices, he noted that major international corporations provide extensive benefits to their workers, including transport, education, healthcare, and job security. As a result, such workplaces rarely experience strikes or protests.
Criticising the misuse of public funds by some entrepreneurs, the adviser added, “We have created entrepreneurs for financial gains, but many have taken the country’s money and fled abroad. They drive Mercedes with public funds and vanish into thin air. What we need are entrepreneurs who have genuine commitment and affection for the country.”
The workshop also discussed the critical need for improving workplace safety and ensuring equitable treatment for workers in all sectors.
His remarks underscored the interim government’s emphasis on labour rights and addressing grievances in a systematic and fair manner.
