Ready to assist govt in holding free and fair polls: Army Chief

Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has said the army is fully prepared to assist the government in holding free, fair and impartial national elections.

“The country is heading towards the national election, and the army has taken all necessary preparations to support the government in ensuring a free, fair and neutral poll,” he said.

Addressing soldiers at the Officers’ Address programme at Dhaka Cantonment on Tuesday, the army chief noted that troops have been deployed in the field for a long time. “In the past, we did not have to stay in the field for such an extended period. That is why it is important to maintain good relations with everyone and bridge any gaps that may exist,” he said.

Senior officials attended the event in person, while officers from other cantonments across the country joined virtually.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman reminded army members that they belong to a professional force and must demonstrate professionalism while on duty. He cautioned them against any involvement in retaliatory acts.

One officer present told bdnews24.com, on condition of anonymity: “The Army chief spoke about the remarks appearing on social media. He said those who spread confusion about the Army in various ways will one day realise they were mistaken.

“And those who do this are like our children. We must not let ourselves be confused by such things,” he was quoted as saying by the officer.

General Waker also cautioned against attempts to damage the Army’s reputation through misinformation.

The Army chief instructed all personnel to carry out their duties with full professionalism in the general election, stressing that the troops would “assist the government” in ensuring a free, fair and impartial vote.

Referring to the Army’s deployment in aid of the civil administration with magistracy powers, he emphasised maintaining “good relations with everyone”.

General Waker addressed two ongoing investigations: one into allegations that an officer had links with a political party and another involving accusations of abuse against women and moral misconduct by a different officer.

He said, “The matter is under investigation. No Army officer has any scope to be politically involved. If evidence is found, action will be taken under the law.”

On the second case, he warned: “Everyone is strictly cautioned. If the allegations are proven, there will be no leniency.”

But General Waker also stressed the need for due process.

“If action is taken without sufficient evidence, there is a risk of error. That is why we must wait for proof through proper investigation.”

The Army chief called for stronger measures to prevent suicide among personnel, urged greater care for families, and warned all ranks against drugs.

After his remarks, he took questions from officers.

He told them, “The people of the country are now looking towards the Army. You are the future of the nation. Therefore you must be inspired by patriotism and uphold the chain of command.”

Referring to misinformation being spread on social media against the army, he said, “We must not be misled by false messages. Remain vigilant so that no one can tarnish the image of the army by spreading disinformation.”

“The people of the country are now looking to you. You are the future of the nation. Therefore, you must remain inspired by patriotism and uphold the chain of command of the force,” he added.