Who Is Waker-Uz-Zaman? Bangladesh Army Chief Behind Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation

Waker-Uz-Zaman, the current Chief of the Bangladesh Army, played a significant role in the recent political crisis that led to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

• Age and Appointment: At 58 years old, Waker-Uz-Zaman was appointed as the Army Chief on June 23, 2024, for a three-year term.
• Education: He holds a master’s degree in Defence Studies from the National University of Bangladesh and furthered his studies with an MA in Defence Studies from King’s College London.
• Career: With a career spanning over three decades, he previously served as Chief of General Staff for six months. He also worked closely with Sheikh Hasina as the Principal Staff Officer at the Armed Forces Division under the Prime Minister’s Office.

Personal Life

Waker-Uz-Zaman is married to Sarahnaz Kamalika Zaman, daughter of General Muhammad Mustafizur Rahman, a former Army Chief from 1997 to 2000.

Current Situation

Following widespread protests and threats to her safety, Sheikh Hasina resigned and was evacuated to India. Waker-Uz-Zaman announced her resignation and the formation of an interim government during this period of political turmoil.