Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman has said there is no reason to be upset over critical remarks directed at the Bangladesh Army, stressing that those making such comments are young and will eventually realize their mistakes.
“They are our children’s age. When they grow older, they will understand and feel ashamed of their actions,” he remarked.
The army chief made the statement on Tuesday morning during the Officers’ Address program at Dhaka Cantonment. Senior officers attended the event in person, while officials from other military installations across the country joined virtually.
Speaking about the upcoming national elections, General Waker-uz-Zaman said, “The country is heading toward elections.
The army is fully prepared to assist the government in holding free, fair, and impartial polls.” He noted that troops have been deployed in the field for an unusually long period, adding that soldiers must maintain good relations with the public and bridge any gaps that may exist.
Reiterating the army’s professional role, he warned, “The army is a professional organization. While on duty, soldiers must act professionally. No one should be involved in acts of revenge.”
Without naming individuals, the army chief revealed that one soldier is under investigation for alleged political affiliations.
“If proven, action will be taken. No member of the army is allowed to engage in political activities,” he said.
He also mentioned that another officer is facing investigation over allegations of violence against women, adding that “there will be no leniency for moral failings. However, no one will be punished on the basis of a media trial. Action will only follow if allegations are proven.”
General Waker-uz-Zaman further reminded senior officers that the state invests heavily in training army personnel. “It is our responsibility to ensure no officer gets involved in wrongdoing. Sending someone home after they commit a crime only wastes state resources,” he cautioned.
Addressing misinformation on social media, the army chief said, “False and misleading information is being spread against the army. We must not be misled. Everyone must remain vigilant so that no one can tarnish the army’s image with fake news.”
He concluded by calling on soldiers to remain motivated by patriotism, uphold discipline, and maintain the chain of command. “The people of this country are now looking toward you. You are the future of this nation,” he told them.
