Senior reporter
Today, the 139th International Workers' Day, or May Day, is being celebrated across the country with great enthusiasm and spirit. This year's theme is: "Workers and owners united; Lets rebuild this country anew."
In an unexpected development, Bangladesh has witnessed the emergence of more than two dozen political parties and platforms in a short span—something not seen in the past three and a half decades. These new parties are forming against the backdrop of a possible fall of the Awami League government, united by a shared political commitment to reshape the existing order. Despite limited public familiarity with their agendas, support bases, or objectives, political analysts suggest these parties are prioritizing alliance-based politics over electoral participation.
The collapse of Rana Plaza in Savar killed over a thousand garment workers on April 24, 2013, leading to both domestic and international pressure that began to change the overall environment of the sector. A decade after one of the deadliest tragedies in history, labor leaders say that significant improvements have been made in factory safety and that minimum wages have increased, although not enough. However, there has been little real change in the quality of life for the workers.
In 2023, the then government fixed the prices of artificial eye lenses to prevent irregularities in the market. Prices were set for 129 types of lenses imported from countries including Thailand, Singapore, India, the USA, Japan, Belgium, Spain, the UK, Germany, Barbados, Hungary, and Greece. The approved price range was from Tk 143 to Tk 1.26 lakh. However, despite these efforts on paper, chaos in lens pricing continues. Allegations have surfaced that consumers are being deceived through cleverly designed “package deals.” Even the cheapest Indian lens, priced at just Tk 726, is now being sold in packages costing Tk 30,000.
Even after 54 years of independence, Bangladesh is still waiting for the restoration of democracy. Having gone through numerous political ups and downs, elections, power transitions, and struggles for the establishment of citizens' rights, the nation remains hopeful for better governance and efficient public services.a
In an ongoing effort to shape Bangladesh’s political future, various parties have submitted their written opinions on proposed constitutional, public administration, judiciary, electoral, and Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) reforms. While some have voiced strong criticism against the interim government’s 'Consensus Commission', others remain committed to ensuring democratic elections.