Government Employees Issue Ultimatum for 9th Pay Scale Implementation

The Bangladesh Government Employees Demand Unity Council has issued an ultimatum to the government for the implementation of the 9th Pay Scale. In a press release signed by Member Secretary Md. Mahmudul Hasan and Chief Coordinator Md. Wares Ali on Friday (20 February), they announced new programs including memorandum submissions, representative assemblies, and organizational activities.

The council highlighted that the 8th Pay Scale from 2015 created disparities, particularly for grades 11-20, and despite various peaceful programs since 2019, no previous government responded or held discussions. They contrasted this with BNP governments in 1991 and 2005, which introduced fair pay scales. Rising living costs have made it difficult for employees with six-member families to survive, they added.

They expressed hope that the current government will act quickly to implement a discrimination-free 9th Pay Scale, considering the 11-year delay and uncontrolled inflation. The announced programs are:

1. From 22 February to 5 March: Local MPs and ministers will be met to submit memorandums to the Prime Minister demanding 9th Pay Scale implementation (to be executed by district and upazila leaders).
2. During the same period: Central leaders will meet cabinet members to submit memorandums through them to the Prime Minister.
3. Throughout Ramadan: Representative assemblies and organizational programs will continue in divisional cities demanding pay scale implementation.

The council stated that if no visible initiative is taken by 15 March, they will announce further programs through a press conference on 28 March after Eid-ul-Fitr.