The ‘Chattogram Port Protection Action Council’ has suspended its indefinite strike, which was launched to protest the government's decision to lease the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to DP World, a UAE-based global port operator.

The council announced the suspension in a press release issued at 12:30 AM on Monday (February 9).

Temporary Reprieve for Trade
According to the statement, the strike—originally set to paralyze the port starting at 8:00 AM on Monday—has been put on hold until February 15.

The council cited the upcoming national elections and the need to ensure the smooth unloading of goods ahead of the holy month of Ramadan as the primary reasons for the pause.

However, the organizers issued a stern warning: if five key grievances—including the arrest of port employees, "harassing" transfers, and suspensions—are not resolved, the strike will resume on February 16.

Conflict Overview
The labor unrest began on January 31, with workers observing a six-day work stoppage to push for a four-point list of demands.

While the movement saw a brief lull over the past Friday and Saturday, tensions escalated after disciplinary actions were taken against 15 employees.

By Sunday (February 8), the port faced total gridlock as the strike extended to outer anchorage activities, halting all operations.

Key Demands of the Protesters:
Cancel the Lease: An official government declaration to scrap the plan to lease the NCT to DP World.

• Accountability: The withdrawal of the Port Chairman and a formal investigation into his conduct.
• Amnesty for Workers: The immediate withdrawal of all disciplinary actions and a guarantee that no legal measures will be taken against protesters.