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Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has expressed support for holding the next parliamentary elections “as soon as possible,” pointing to December as a feasible timeframe, according to sources familiar with a recent high-level military briefing.
The remarks were made during a formal address to army officers at Senaprangon in Dhaka Cantonment. Officers based in Dhaka were physically present, while others from garrisons across the country joined virtually. Personnel deployed in UN missions also attended the session remotely.
General Waker opened the address by commending the Bangladesh Army for its dedication and professionalism in maintaining national stability. However, he noted with concern that both he and the army have come under unfair criticism from certain vested quarters despite the military’s continued support to civil administration since August 5, 2024.
Reaffirming the army’s commitment to constitutional duties, the army chief stated, “The Bangladesh Army will never take any step that compromises the country’s sovereignty.” He emphasized neutrality, urging all ranks to conduct their electoral responsibilities with integrity.
He also cautioned that prolonged internal deployment could weaken the army’s core defense readiness, signaling a desire for a timely resolution to the political transition.
During the interactive session that followed, officers raised issues ranging from public order and communal violence to internal reforms and the Chattogram port’s operational challenges.
Responding to a suggestion that the army publicly disclose offenses committed by dismissed personnel, General Waker invoked Islamic principles, noting that public shaming is discouraged. However, he conceded that disclosures could be considered if incidents surpass acceptable limits.
The discussion also touched on the UN fact-finding report regarding alleged extrajudicial killings during the July–August unrest, as well as ongoing reforms led by the interim government.
General Waker’s remarks signal the military’s preference for a swift political resolution through elections, while maintaining a firm stance on neutrality and professional integrity.
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