Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman sent a strong and unequivocal message on Wednesday. He reaffirmed that the fate of the country should be determined by an elected government and not an unelected interim one. This came amid intensifying tensions regarding the planned humanitarian corridor and increasing political instability.
Army Chief dismissed any idea of a so-called “bloody corridor,” highlighting the strong commitment of the armed forces to upholding law and order.
No Support For ‘Bloody Corridor’
In a Durbar session with officers, General Waker-Uz-Zaman categorically asserted that the military will neither endorse nor disapprove of any “bloody corridor” at all costs. This much-debated term is used for a humanitarian corridor that has caused widespread apprehension throughout the country.
Additionally, National Security Advisor Dr. Khalilur Rahman echoed this position by asserting that a discussion on such a corridor never took place and never will in the future.
Rising Fears About Transition Government
The firm words of the Army Chief underscore growing discontent within Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus-led interim government. Sources in Dhaka indicate that General Waker-Uz-Zaman worries that the interim government takes pivotal choices without consulting the armed forces.
As a result, this isolation sparks strong doubts about military and political leadership cooperation at this tense time.
Votes Must Be Held By December
General Waker-Uz-Zaman reiterated that the nation needs to conduct elections by December at any cost. He reiterated that the elected leaders should decide the future of Bangladesh. Moreover, the officer ranks remain solidly behind the Army Chief and remains willing to take action based on his orders if the situation demands.
This cohesion in the military suggests the possibility of increased control in the nation’s political scene.
Stricter Enforcement Against Violence
Lastly, the Army Chief issued zero tolerance for violence and lawlessness of mobs. He indicated that the military will implement more stringent public order disciplines in the future. This strict action demonstrates the military’s insistence on maintaining stability and security during the nation’s widespread political issues.
Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture today. With the military firmly entrenched and the call for elections by December, country’s future direction towards democracy is in the balance. Everyone’s eyes will be on how the interim government & other political players, react in the next few months.
