Army Chief Urges Professionalism Ahead of Elections

As part of preparations for the upcoming 13th National Parliament elections and associated referenda, the Chief of Army Staff, General Okar-uz-Zaman, has issued directives to all military personnel to uphold professionalism, discipline, and citizen-friendly conduct. The instructions were conveyed during his inspection visits to Patuakhali and Khulna districts, aimed at ensuring a secure, impartial, and well-organised electoral environment.

During the visits, General Okar-uz-Zaman closely observed law and order conditions and monitored the operations of military personnel deployed under the ‘Civil Power Assistance’ initiative. He emphasised operational discipline, accountability, and effective coordination with local administrative authorities, providing detailed guidance to ensure that military support complements civil governance without compromising public trust.

The Army Chief also held extensive consultations with senior local administration officials, focusing on strengthening inter-agency coordination and accelerating measures for robust security management. These engagements were highlighted in an official statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of the Bangladesh Army.

In Patuakhali, General Okar-uz-Zaman attended a high-level meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall, joined by senior army officers, divisional and district administrators, and top law enforcement officials. Similarly, at the Khulna Divisional Commissioner’s office, he participated in advisory discussions addressing security preparedness and administrative coordination.

Topics discussed included the maintenance of a peaceful electoral environment, ensuring impartial conduct of the election, and the implementation of emergency security measures. The presence of key military and administrative officials underscores a joint approach to electoral security. A summary of key personnel engaged during the inspections is provided below:

General Okar-uz-Zaman emphasised: “The conduct of military personnel must be professional and responsible to sustain public confidence and a sense of security. Ensuring citizens’ trust and comfort is essential to create an environment conducive to a free, fair, and impartial election.”

The inspections and subsequent consultations signal a clear commitment to effective coordination between the army and local administration ahead of the elections. This comprehensive approach demonstrates a unified effort to safeguard a secure, peaceful, and transparent electoral process across the country.