Army Chief Demands Elections by December
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has stated that the national election in Bangladesh should be held by December this year. He also reiterated his previous stance on the election issue.
He made the remarks on Wednesday (May 21) while addressing an Officers' Address held at Dhaka Cantonment. Army officers of various ranks stationed in Dhaka attended the event, with many joining virtually.
In addition to the national election, other contemporary issues—such as the humanitarian corridor, Chattogram Port’s container terminal, and related reforms—were discussed during the event, according to multiple sources present.
The Army Chief asserted that the Bangladesh Army would never engage in any activity that could compromise the country’s sovereignty.
Sources familiar with the event reported that General Waker praised the tireless service and dedication of the armed forces in maintaining national stability. Thanking all members, he stated that the army has been supporting the interim government in every possible way and will continue to do so.
He instructed army personnel at all levels to remain neutral and emphasised that, once a political government takes office, the military must return to the barracks.
On the humanitarian corridor for delivering aid to Myanmar’s Rakhine State, the Army Chief said any decision on the issue must come from an elected government and follow a legitimate process. He emphasised that national interest must come first and that such actions should be based on political consensus.
General Waker also addressed the recent debate over assigning the management of Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to a foreign company. Responding to a question, he said that public opinion and the views of political leaders must be considered, and that such decisions should be made by a political government.
As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, General Waker called for efforts to ensure the public can celebrate the festival in a safe and festive atmosphere.
He further instructed all ranks to remain neutral and to carry out any future electoral duties with honesty and dedication.
