Politics
Police disperse protesters opposing DP World port concession
Police used batons to disperse demonstrators in Dhaka's Agargaon on 8 October as activists protested the signing of the 15-year New Mooring Container Terminal concession. The protest took place near the agreement venue. The deal was signed, but opposition to private operation of the strategic port facility continues.
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From 9 October 2026 — Daily Brief
Police dispersed a protest in Dhaka on 8 October as activists opposed the signing of a 15-year concession allowing DP World to operate Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal.
Demonstrators from the Communist Party of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal and other groups gathered near the Invest Bangladesh office in Agargaon, where the agreement was signed later that afternoon.
The protesters argued against transferring operation of the strategic container facility to a foreign company. Police used batons to break up the gathering, according to reporting from the scene.
The concession covers operation and maintenance of the terminal and its overflow container yard. Supporters of international terminal management expect improvements in efficiency and capacity; opponents raise concerns over control and public accountability.
The dispute is now both an economic-policy and political issue. The agreement’s practical effect will depend on its terms, regulatory oversight and the transition in port operations.
Source: Original reporting.