The Democratic Rights Committee, a platform advocating democratic rights and freedom of expression, has expressed deep concern over what it describes as a lack of transparency and unusual haste in leasing several terminals of Chattogram Port to foreign companies.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the committee alleged that the agreements for the Laldia and Pangaon container terminals were processed during weekly holidays, raising serious questions about transparency.

Port users and relevant stakeholders were not included in the decision-making process, said the committee, alleging that similar swiftness has been observed regarding the New Mooring Terminal.

The committee stated that it is questionable for an interim government to proceed with major long-term concession or lease agreements involving strategic national assets. They emphasised that decisions of such national importance should not be taken with secrecy, irregularities, or undue urgency.

The statement also raised concerns over the role of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank affiliate, which is advising the government on concession agreements for Chattogram Port’s Patenga and Laldia terminals. The committee claimed that recent tariff increases and the move to lease out terminals to foreign operators follow IFC recommendations.

They questioned why the government is relying solely on IFC’s advice, while disregarding the views of domestic experts and port users.

The committee additionally cited past cases in other countries where IFC-recommended reforms in water and public services reportedly led to negative outcomes for citizens.