Controversy grows over Andy Hall`s Bangladesh trip

Staff Correspondent: British labour rights campaigner has been accused of threatening Bangladeshi journalists and using racist and offensive language after several media outlets published reports on his recent visit to Dhaka and meetings with government officials.

The controversy happens as Bangladesh and Malaysia move forward with reopening the Malaysian labour market for Bangladeshi workers following Bangladesh Prime Minister `s recent visit to Kuala Lumpur.

According to ministry sources, Hall met Expatriates` Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister , Prime Minister`s Special Assistant , Bangladesh recruiting agency representatives and NGO officials during his stay. Officials alleged that Hall urged the government to reconsider aspects of the labour market reopening, including issues related to the Foreign Workers Centralised Management System (FWCMS).

Sources claimed that the minister rejected Hall`s proposals, after which the discussion became heated. The ministry reportedly maintained its position in favour of reopening the labour market.

Following publication of reports on his visit, Hall allegedly sent WhatsApp messages to journalists and media executives threatening legal action. In one message seen by this newspaper, Hall even wrote a very racist message saying: "You shouldn`t pick a fight with me. I`m British and I have white skin. You can try to [expletive] with your own Bangladeshi people, but don`t [expletive] with me." He also accused the publications of defamation and said his lawyers were preparing legal proceedings.

Hall, however, defended his visit in a statement, saying he had travelled to Bangladesh to support migration and labour reforms. "I advocated for a labour market that is open to all," he said, adding that his July 5 meeting with government officials was "not productive."

Ministry officials alleged that Hall`s visit was arranged by former BAIRA Joint Secretary and others seeking to influence the government`s approach to the Malaysian labour market. Business figures familiar with the matter also alleged that Hall met representatives of recruiting agencies and migration activists during his visit. These claims however, could not be independently verified.

Some business people further alleged that Hall has previously supported policies that could restrict Bangladesh`s access to the Malaysian labour market while benefiting other labour-sending countries. Hall has publicly denied wrongdoing in the past.

Government intelligence officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Hall had entered Bangladesh on a tourist visa. Authorities have not announced any investigation into his visit or the allegations surrounding it.