Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has stated that the national election should be held by December, emphasizing that only an elected government has the right to determine the country's future path.
He made these remarks on Wednesday (May 21) during an Officers' Address at the Army Headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment. Army officials from various levels stationed in Dhaka participated, with many joining virtually.
In addition to the election, the event discussed various contemporary issues, including corridors, ports, and state reforms. Multiple army officials present at different levels provided this information.
Regarding discussions on a humanitarian corridor in Myanmar's Rakhine State, the Army Chief said that any decision on this matter must come from an elected government and follow a legitimate process. He stressed the importance of national interest, stating that whatever is done must protect national interests and be achieved through "political consensus."
Addressing recent discussions and debates about handing over the operational responsibility of the Chittagong Port's New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) to foreigners, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated that the opinions of local people and political leaders would be necessary. He emphasized that such decisions should be made by a political government.
The Army Chief also issued a stern warning against "mob violence," stating that the army is taking a tougher stance on law and order. He affirmed that disorder or violence by organized mobs would no longer be tolerated.
Regarding ongoing state reform activities, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated that he has no knowledge of what reforms are taking place or how they are being implemented, and that he has not been consulted or discussed on the matter.
Thanking everyone for fulfilling their duties in the changed circumstances, the Army Chief said, "We are cooperating with the interim government, and we will continue to cooperate."
General Waker-Uz-Zaman instructed army personnel at all levels to remain neutral and perform future electoral duties with honesty and integrity, stating that the Bangladesh Army would never engage in any activities detrimental to national sovereignty.
