“If you can’t put aside your differences, nation’s sovereignty will be at risk”: Army Chief

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has warned that continued infighting and internal divisions could threaten the country’s independence and sovereignty.

“If you cannot put aside your differences and work together, if you engage in mudslinging, violence, and conflict, then the independence and sovereignty of this nation will be at risk,” he said today at a special event at Dhaka’s Raowa Club marking National Army Martyrs Day.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman issued a strong cautionary message, emphasizing that he was speaking out to prevent instability.

“I am saying this now so that later you cannot claim I didn’t warn you. I am warning you today. I have no other ambitions. I’ve had enough in the last seven to eight months. I’ve had enough,” he said.

He stressed the importance of restoring national unity and stability before the military withdraws from its active role.

“I want to leave this country in a good place before we return to Cantonment,” he said.

The army chief also pointed to the deteriorating law-and-order situation, attributing it to ongoing turmoil.

“The first reason for this instability is that we are too busy fighting among ourselves, attacking one another. This creates a perfect opportunity for criminals, as they know they can get away with their crimes in this chaotic situation,” he explained.

“If we remain united and organized, we can collectively tackle these challenges,” he added.

The Army Chief acknowledged the crucial role that security forces, including the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), and National Security Intelligence (NSI), have played in maintaining national stability over the years.

“These agencies have done significant work for the country. While there have been some wrongdoings, they have also done countless good deeds. The stability we have had for so many years is largely due to the combined efforts of military and civilian personnel,” he said.

However, he stressed the need for accountability, ensuring that those guilty of wrongdoing are held responsible.

“Anyone who has committed crimes must be punished, without question. Otherwise, these things will keep happening. But we must also ensure that while addressing these issues, we do not undermine our security institutions,” he cautioned.