Army Chief calls for national polls by December

Liberty News Desk
Photo: Collected

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has reaffirmed his stance that Bangladesh’s national election should be held by December, emphasizing that only an elected government holds the mandate to determine the country’s future.

Addressing an Officers’ Assembly at the Dhaka Cantonment on Wednesday, General Waker-Uz-Zaman reiterated the importance of upholding democratic processes and maintaining national interest above all.

On the issue of a proposed humanitarian corridor in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, the Army Chief said any such decision must originate from an elected government and follow a legitimate process. “Whatever is done must protect national interests and be based on political consensus,” he added.

Responding to recent debates over foreign involvement in operating Chattogram Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), the General said such decisions should reflect the opinions of local citizens as well as political leaders. “This is a matter for political authority, and decisions must be made through them,” he stressed.

On law and order, General Waker-Uz-Zaman warned that the army would adopt a tougher stance against mob violence. “Disorder and violence under the guise of mass gatherings will no longer be tolerated,” he said firmly.

Regarding institutional reforms, the Army Chief clarified that he had not been consulted about any ongoing changes and was unaware of current developments in that area.

With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, he urged all military personnel to assist in ensuring a secure and festive atmosphere across the country. “Bangladesh Army will never be involved in any activity that threatens national sovereignty,” he stated.

The Chief also directed all ranks of the army to remain neutral and perform future electoral duties with utmost honesty and integrity. He thanked officers for their service under changing circumstances and assured continued cooperation with the interim government.

LND/BG

English News : https://www.libertynewsbd.com

বাংলা সংবাদ : https://www.bangla.libertynewsbd.com

X : https://www.x.com/libertynewsbd

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/libertynewsbd/

TAGGED:
Share This Article