Bangladesh's Army Chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, has expressed his view that national elections should ideally take place by December this year.
Speaking to officers at Senaprangan in Dhaka Cantonment on Wednesday, he emphasized that only a government elected by the people has the rightful authority to steer the country's direction, according to media sources.
Addressing officers both in person and virtually, General Waker reiterated his consistent position on the importance of democratic leadership. "The responsibility of determining the nation's path lies with a government chosen by the people," he said.
During the closed-door session, the army chief also discussed several key national matters, including the upcoming election, humanitarian issues related to Myanmar's Rakhine State, port operations, reform measures, and concerns about rising mob violence.
On the proposed humanitarian corridor in Rakhine, General Waker said that any decision regarding it must be made legally and by an elected authority. “Actions must align with national interests and reflect a political consensus,” he noted.
He strongly condemned mob violence, signaling that the military would adopt a stricter approach to dealing with public unrest. “Disorder under the pretext of mass mobilization will no longer be tolerated,” he warned.
General Waker also commented on recent controversy surrounding the foreign involvement in the management of Chittagong's New Mooring Container Terminal.
He stated that such major decisions should involve both local communities and political representatives, and ultimately be taken by a government with an electoral mandate.
When asked about reform initiatives under the current interim government, the army chief stated that he had not been consulted and had no information on the specific changes being made.
As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, General Waker called on military personnel to assist in maintaining public order and ensuring a safe, celebratory atmosphere for citizens.
He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to neutrality, pledging that troops would remain impartial and perform their duties with integrity if called upon during the election process.
He concluded by thanking the armed forces for their ongoing service and confirmed continued cooperation with the interim government.
