Google Alert – Bangladesh Army
Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has said the country is heading towards the national election, and the army has taken preparations to assist the government in holding free and fair polls.
“All members of the army must be ready to perform their duties neutrally and in accordance with the law,” he said at a regular Officers’ Address at Dhaka Cantonment yesterday, noting that the government has announced a time-frame for the polls.
At least four sources with knowledge of the meeting confirmed the contents of his speech to this newspaper. Senior officials attended in person, while others from all cantonments and UN missions joined virtually.
General Waker spoke for about 38 minutes and then responded to questions for nearly an hour.
He said soldiers have been deployed in the field for extended periods, unlike in the past. “We must maintain good relations with everyone and remove any distance that may exist,” a source quoted him as saying.
On propaganda about and criticism of the army on social media, he urged restraint. “Different individuals are spreading such things [rumours] for their own vested interests. It is best to respond with professionalism rather than taking immediate action. However, all such offences are being duly documented, and at an appropriate time, legal action will be taken against those responsible,” he said, according to another source.
The army chief also asked officers not to be disheartened by disparaging remarks. “There is no need to be upset. Those making such remarks are young, of the age of our children. Once they grow up, they will realise their mistake and feel ashamed.”
Waker stressed professionalism, warning that no one should engage in acts of revenge.
Without naming anyone, he said an officer is under investigation for alleged links with a political party. “If the allegations are proven, action will be taken. No member of the army can engage in political activities.”
Another officer is being probed over allegations of violence against women.
“There will be zero tolerance for moral degradation,” Gen Waker said. “But nobody will be punished based on a media trial; action will be taken only if charges are proven.”
He pointed out that the state makes a huge investment in every officer. “If someone gets involved in wrongdoing and is simply sent home, that becomes nothing but a waste of state resources. Therefore, senior officials must remain alert to prevent such misconduct beforehand.”
The army chief also warned against disinformation campaigns at home and abroad. “These attempts could not succeed due to our unity and professionalism,” he said, urging members not to be misled.
“The people of the country are now looking up to you. You are the future of the country. Be inspired by patriotism and uphold the chain of command of the force.”
Earlier in his speech, he congratulated members of the army for their service. “The people will always remain grateful for this historic role.”
On allegations of misconduct, the army chief said such cases are tried under existing military laws. “But one must remember that hasty trials based on inadequate evidence can lead to mistakes. Necessary investigations will be carried out, and justice will be ensured.”
He also raised routine matters: keeping personnel away from politics and drugs, ensuring no deaths or injuries occur during interrogations while assisting civil power, preventing road accidents, and urging members to look after their families and raise their children with social and religious values. Parents, he added, must remain vigilant against behavioural problems and drug abuse among children.
During the Q&A session, issues such as foreign leave for officers, promotion opportunities in different corps, and amendments to the age limit for staff college exams were discussed.
The army chief ended his address by calling for unity and wishing all members well.