NN Online:
Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman has emphasised the military’s unwavering commitment to stand by the interim government, vowing to make any sacrifices necessary in support of its leadership.
He made these remarks in a recent interview with a newspaper at the Army Headquarters.
Discussing several key topics, including the military’s role in maintaining peace and order following the mass uprising, He said the support for the interim government, the establishment of a new political culture, relations with neighboring countries, and the need for constitutional reforms to balance the powers of the head of state and the head of government.
He said, “We are fully by the government’s side. We will assist the chief adviser in whatever way he or we can. Even if it poses challenges for us, or if the soldiers face temporary difficulties, we will continue to support the government. We do this in the interest of the nation and the country. For the sake of this nation, the country, and its people, we are prepared to make any sacrifices.
“We are supporting the interim government. We are providing assistance in the ways they request and will continue to do so. The day the interim government says, ‘Thank you, you have completed your task, now the police will take over law and order,’ we will gladly return to our barracks.”
Emphasising the importance of creating a new political culture in the aftermath of the mass uprising, he said, “I am optimistic. There are good politicians among the political parties, and there may be those with differing opinions as well. Based on my past experience, during such critical times, when we sit down with our politicians, they tend to come forward with a spirit of cooperation.”
Expressing hope for an understanding between the interim government and political parties, he said, “Now, compromise is possible. It can be achieved through dialogue. This is also a matter of culture, and everyone should understand this. I am not pessimistic.”
Regarding the military’s non-interference in politics, General Waker-Uz-Zaman said, “We firmly believe that politicians can only be replaced by other politicians. The military is not an alternative to them.”
