Army Chief directs troops to remain neutral ahead of the 13th parliamentary election

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has instructed all officers and soldiers to perform their duties with professionalism and complete neutrality in the run-up to the 13th national parliamentary election, stressing that the army must not take sides with any political party.

The directive was given on Sunday during an “Officers’ Address” held at the Senaprangon of Dhaka Cantonment. 

Army officers stationed outside Dhaka joined the programme online. Before the address to officers, the army chief also spoke to soldiers separately.

According to multiple reliable army sources, the army chief outlined the current situation and provided clear guidance on the role of the Bangladesh Army during the upcoming election. 

He emphasised that no favouritism or partisanship would be tolerated and that all duties must be carried out with strict neutrality and professionalism.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the 13th national parliamentary election must be fully free, fair, and neutral. 

He stressed the importance of maintaining a law and order situation that encourages people from all walks of life to go to polling centres. Ensuring security at polling stations and in surrounding areas, he said, would allow voters to cast their ballots peacefully and return home safely, ultimately increasing voter turnout. 

He called on all personnel to work in unity to achieve this goal.

The army chief noted that army members have been discharging their responsibilities with dedication during the country’s critical period and said the nation would remember the army’s role in safeguarding stability. 

He added that after the election, the army would return to the barracks after handing over power to an elected democratic government.

During the address, General Waker-Uz-Zaman also spoke about the overall law and order situation, warning against rumours, misinformation, and various forms of propaganda. 

He urged officers and soldiers to remain patient and avoid reacting to any provocative statements. He further instructed that top criminals at district and upazila levels be identified and brought to justice through magistrates to prevent violence and any untoward incidents during the election.