The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has urged garment factory owners across the country to keep all factories closed on Wednesday, expressing solidarity with the state mourning declared by the government following the death of BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
Khaleda Zia passed away at 6am on Tuesday. In response, the government announced three days of state mourning and declared a one-day general holiday.
In a press release, the BGMEA said it fully supports the government’s decision and requested the relevant authorities to ensure a one-day general holiday on 31 December at all garment factories affiliated with the association.
According to the government-announced programme, national mourning is being observed across the country, with government and private institutions undertaking various mourning activities in remembrance of the late leader.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) Executive President Fazle Shamim Ehsan said the organisation has expressed deep sorrow and grief at Khaleda Zia’s death.
All BKMEA member factories will remain closed on 31 December, he added.
Although keeping factories closed during a government-declared general holiday is not mandatory under labour laws, Fazle Shamim Ehsan said the decision was taken out of respect for the government’s call and the national sentiment.
“In honour of the state mourning, we have decided to keep our establishments closed,” he added.
