The Forum panel, led by Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu, managing director of Rising Fashions, has won the biennial election of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Mahmud secured 1,149 votes, while his main rival, Sammilita Parishad panel leader Md Abul Kalam, managing director of Chaiti Group, received 664 votes.
The Forum panel dominated the election, with most elected directors coming from their group. These directors will go on to nominate the president, vice presidents, and other office bearers for the 2025-27 term.
A total of 1,864 members voted in the election, including 1,561 in Dhaka and 303 in Chattogram.
This election marked the first major trade body vote since the political transition in August 2024 and the dissolution of the previous BGMEA committee.
Voting began simultaneously at 8:00 AM in Dhaka and Chattogram and continued uninterrupted until 5:00 PM.
In Dhaka, the polls were held at the Radisson Hotel, where 1,561 members cast their ballots, while 303 voters participated at the Chattogram center.
BGMEA Administrator Md Anwar Hossain reported a voter turnout of 88.21% in Dhaka and 83.83% in Chattogram.
