CAC calls for workers’ rights, corruption-free BD

Speakers at a May Day discussion in Dhaka called for ensuring workers’ rights and building a corruption-free Bangladesh. Marking International Workers’ Day, Citizens Against Corruption (CAC) urged the establishment of fair labour rights, safe working conditions and transparent governance.

The discussion was held on Friday at the auditorium of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), under the theme, “Workers’ rights, end of corruption: A transparent drive towards a prosperous future.” Speakers noted that although workers are the backbone of the national economy, many are still deprived of fair wages, workplace safety and social dignity.

They stressed that both the state and employers must act more sincerely to improve the living standards of workers, particularly in the garment, construction and transport sectors.

They argued that without a corruption-free administration and ensured transparency, meaningful progress for workers would remain unattainable. Eliminating irregularities and corruption, they said, is key to building a worker-friendly, business-friendly and safe state.

As chief guest, former BTRC chairman Margub Morshed said sustainable development is impossible without corruption-free governance and worker-friendly policies, emphasising accountability and coordination among the state, employers and workers.

CAC Chairman Yusuf Hossain warned that exploitation of workers holds the country back, calling for immediate formulation and implementation of effective labour-friendly policies to ensure fair wages, healthcare and social security for all workers.

The session, moderated by CAC General Secretary Salman Mahmud, also featured remarks from adviser Dr Mostafizur Rahman, industrialist Khorshed Alam Khosru, DRU President Abu Saleh Akon, political figure Habibur Rahman Riju, poet Ashraful Islam and Vice-President Shakhawat Hossain.