Call to Declare Khaliduzzaman Persona Non Grata

The Ex-Forces Association (EFA) has lodged a strong protest against S. M. Khaliduzzaman, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for Dhaka-17, following his alleged attempt to enter a cantonment area while carrying a firearm. The association has demanded that the candidate be declared persona non grata in all cantonment areas if he does not issue a public apology within 24 hours.

In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Saifullah Khan Saif (Retd.), President of the EFA, the association expressed deep concern over the incident. The statement said that Khaliduzzaman attempted to enter the sensitive military zone with a weapon, and when stopped by responsible security personnel, he reportedly displayed extremely arrogant behaviour and directed offensive and derogatory remarks at the soldiers.

The statement emphasised that such behaviour directly undermines the morale, dignity, and discipline of the armed forces. “Political affiliation or electoral candidacy does not grant anyone immunity from the law or constitution. Cantonments are strictly state security zones and must remain free from any political influence,” the statement read.

The EFA further warned that if Khaliduzzaman fails to offer an unconditional public apology and does not clearly commit to refraining from any future disrespectful or provocative behaviour, the association will insist that he be officially barred from entering all cantonment areas as persona non grata (PNG) within the next 24 hours. “On matters of law, the honour of the armed forces, and national security, the Ex-Forces Association will not compromise,” the statement stressed.

The association’s call has sparked nationwide attention, reflecting the heightened sensitivity of cantonment zones in Bangladesh, which house key military infrastructure and personnel. Security experts note that any incident involving firearms or disrespect towards military personnel within such areas is treated with utmost seriousness, given its implications for national security and civil-military relations.

A summary of the incident and the EFA’s response is provided below:

The Ex-Forces Association reiterated that cantonments are sovereign state zones, where any attempt at political influence or intimidation is unacceptable. The organisation called on all political figures to respect the law and maintain the sanctity of military installations.

As the 24-hour deadline approaches, national observers are closely monitoring whether Khaliduzzaman will comply with the EFA’s demand for public accountability, which could set a precedent for the treatment of political actors within restricted military areas in Bangladesh.