“They Will One Day Regret Their Mistakes”: Bangladesh Army Chief

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman has responded to the recent wave of derogatory remarks directed towards the Bangladesh Army, saying that such comments should not be a cause of resentment.

“Those making such remarks are young—about the age of our children. When they grow up, they will understand their mistakes, and at that time they themselves will feel ashamed,” the Army Chief said.

He delivered these remarks on Tuesday, 19 August, during an ‘Officers’ Address’ at Dhaka Cantonment. Senior officers were present in person, while others from army installations across the country joined virtually.

General Waker-uz-Zaman underlined the Army’s preparedness in assisting the government to ensure a free, fair, and impartial national election.

“The country is moving towards elections. The Army is fully prepared to assist the government in conducting free, fair, and neutral polls,” he stated.

He also acknowledged the prolonged field deployment of soldiers, remarking that such extended responsibilities were unprecedented. He urged personnel to maintain good relations with civilians and eliminate any existing distance with the public.

The Army Chief emphasised that the Bangladesh Army is a professional organisation, insisting that soldiers must demonstrate professionalism while on duty.

• No involvement in retaliatory acts would be tolerated.
• Every member must act with dignity and discipline.

Without directly naming individuals, General Waker-uz-Zaman addressed sensitive issues currently under investigation:

He stressed that:

• No one will face punishment based on “media trials”.
• However, if allegations are proven, strict measures will be enforced.

The Army Chief reminded senior officers of the state’s significant investment in training and developing military personnel.

“The state spends a vast amount to train a soldier. Preventive measures must be taken to ensure that no one gets involved in wrongdoing. Sending a soldier home after they fall into crime is nothing but a waste of national resources.”

General Waker-uz-Zaman cautioned against misinformation campaigns targeting the Army:

• False and misleading messages are being spread on social platforms.
• Soldiers must not be swayed or confused by such propaganda.
• Extra vigilance is required to protect the image of the Army.

He further reminded soldiers of their pivotal role:

“The people of the country now look up to you. You are the future of the nation. Therefore, you must be inspired by patriotism and ensure the Army’s chain of command remains intact.”