'We Work for You': Bangladesh Army Chief Attempts To Defend Military Amid Rising Criticism

New Delhi: Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman issued a strong statement addressing rising criticism against the military, warning that continued internal conflicts could threaten the country’s sovereignty.  

“I am warning everyone. Don't tell me later I didn't warn you. If you don't end your differences and work together, if you keep fighting like this, this country will lose its sovereignty. Let me say it once again, I am warning all of you,” he said.  

Also Read: Bangladesh Army Chief Sounds Big Warning To Politicians. Is It Curtains For Yunus Govt?

The army chief stressed that his only ambition was to stabilize the country before returning to the barracks. 

I don't have any ambitions. I just have one ambition, I want to give, place the country in a certain position and return to the barracks. I have had enough for the last 7-8 months, he said.  

Highlighting the prevailing lawlessness, he said, “People are fighting each other internally. This is a great opportunity for criminals. We are living in a lawless situation in Bangladesh, and criminals want to take advantage of it.” 

If anyone troubles security forces, they will have to be punished severely. We must never undermine people in uniform. Police officials are not working because there is an attempt to undermine them. Security officials are in panic, he said.

They are facing allegations and charges. But you cannot undermine police officials and security and assume that there will be peace in the country, he cautioned.  

General Waker-uz-Zaman emphasized that maintaining national security was not the sole responsibility of the army. 

Not the job of the army alone to ensure security of the country. There are 2 lakh paramilitary and police officials, I only have 30,000 army personnel. I cannot manage the situation with 30,000 soldiers alone, he said.  

Addressing the current political instability, he stated, “We are responsible for the mess in Bangladesh. We are in the middle of a self-manufactured crisis. If things continue like this, there will never be peace in Bangladesh.” He expressed hope for a “free, fair, and inclusive election” and urged for unity.  

“I am warning you again. Don't tell me I didn't warn you. If people can't work together and start killing each other, then we will lose our independence,” he reiterated.  

Responding to criticism against the army, he defended the institution, stating that the military serves the people alongside the Navy and Air Force. He expressed confusion over the growing resentment towards the army and its leadership, emphasizing that they are open to constructive advice from political leaders.