Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has issued a strong statement emphasising the urgency of restoring national unity and institutional discipline amid escalating political unrest. Speaking at the National Martyred Army Day event in Dhaka on February 25, he highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation, attributing it to political conflicts and ineffective law enforcement.

Political Divisions and Security Concerns

Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman criticised the growing political infighting, stating, "People are preoccupied with vilifying each other," which he believes threatens the nation’s sovereignty. He pointed out the inefficacy of the police force, noting that many officers face legal charges or are imprisoned, leading to widespread fear and hesitation within the law enforcement community.

He reiterated that Bangladesh must put an end to internal divisions, warning that prolonged political conflicts could destabilise the country. Addressing concerns over the upcoming elections, he remarked, "I had previously mentioned that elections be held within 18 months [of the interim government taking charge]. The government seems to be moving in that direction."

BDR Rebellion and Judicial Process

The army chief issued a stern warning regarding the judicial process for the 2009 rebellion by the then-Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), now known as Border Guard Bangladesh. The mutiny, which led to the massacre of army officers, is commemorated annually as National Martyred Army Day. Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman made it clear that the legal proceedings must not be disrupted. “The judicial process for the BDR rebellion must not be sabotaged,” he stressed.

Reflecting on the tragic events of February 25, 2009, he stated, "I was an eyewitness to this barbarity. One thing we must remember: no army member committed this act. It was entirely orchestrated by the then-BDR members. Full stop—no ifs and buts." He cautioned that questioning the judicial process could jeopardise years of legal proceedings and affect those already sentenced. "Do not spoil this judicial process," he warned.

To address grievances of those claiming unjust punishment since 2009, the army chief revealed that a review board, led by a lieutenant general, has been formed. "In the first phase, they’ve made recommendations for 51 members. I’ve accepted most and added more," he stated. Similar reviews are being conducted in the Navy and Air Force. "If someone’s guilty, there’ll be no exemption—not a single one," he asserted, reaffirming the importance of discipline.

Nationwide Crackdown on Unrest

Bangladesh has recently seen a surge in violent crimes and protests, with security forces targeting groups allegedly associated with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League. Demonstrators have vandalised properties linked to Hasina’s family, including the Dhaka residence of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding leader. Clashes between student political factions have also intensified at universities.

Since launching ‘Operation Devil Hunt’ on February 8, security forces have detained over 8,600 individuals suspected of attempting to destabilise the nation. Addressing the situation, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman declared, “The anarchy we have witnessed is our own making.”

The general, who assumed leadership of the army after Hasina fled to India last August, called for public support for interim government Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus. Yunus has pledged to implement democratic reforms and hold national elections by late 2025 or early 2026.

Addressing Allegations Against Security Forces

Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman also responded to accusations of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture by security forces. He emphasised that those responsible must be held accountable to break the cycle of impunity. However, he also defended law enforcement and intelligence agencies such as the police, Rapid Action Battalion, Border Guard Bangladesh, Directorate General of Forces Intelligence, and National Security Intelligence, stating that despite past controversies, these institutions have played positive roles. He urged that investigations should not undermine these agencies' credibility.

Call for Unity and Discipline

Emphasising the need for discipline within the armed forces, the army chief stated, “The army is a disciplined force. Let it remain disciplined. Let’s not create divisions; let’s stay united.” His remarks came during a special program titled ‘In Memory of the Martyred Officers of the Pilkhana Massacre.’

Concluding his speech, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman reinforced the importance of restoring stability before the army withdraws from active intervention. “Once stability is restored, we shall return to the barracks,” he declared. His address underscored the military’s commitment to justice, national security, and institutional integrity, calling on all factions to prioritise unity over division.