Work with professionalism
Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday called on the Special Security Force (SSF) to carry out their duties with utmost professionalism, remaining above all political affiliations.
“In providing security to state-declared VIPs, it is imperative to emphasize character strength, improved discipline, integrity, responsibility, and human values-alongside professional skills. Above all, your conduct must remain apolitical and rooted in professionalism,” he told SSF personnel at an event held at the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO).
The event marked the 39th founding anniversary of the SSF. Director General of SSF, Major General Mahbubus Samad Chowdhury, also spoke on the occasion.
Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the chiefs of the three armed services, CA’s principal secretary, SDG affairs principal coordinator, CA’s press secretary, the Inspector General of Police, and other senior government officials were present.
Prof Yunus acknowledged that, in ensuring security, the SSF often needs to enforce restrictions that may cause inconvenience to the public. He urged the force to minimize such disruptions as much as possible.
Referring to past practices, he noted that flight operations at Shahjalal International Airport used to be suspended for about an hour during VIP movements, creating various complications. “I have lifted this restriction to ease the sufferings of regular passengers,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the SSF’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities successfully-by balancing security with public relations, rather than remaining detached from the people.
Discussing the SSF’s duties, the Chief Adviser said the force provides security to Bangabhaban, his official residence and office, and during his movements.
The SSF, he noted, also plays a crucial role in ensuring security during events held both within and outside Dhaka.
He praised the SSF’s work in Cox’s Bazar, the Rohingya camps, Chittagong Port, and during the convocation ceremony at Chittagong University, which he personally attended.
“Not just within the country-during my state visits abroad, the SSF worked seamlessly with embassies and the security and protocol forces of host countries, contributing to the success of those visits,” he said.
He also commended the SSF for its efficient handling of security during recent visits by the Malaysian Prime Minister, the President of East Timor, and the UN Secretary-General to Bangladesh.
In the context of evolving global threats, Prof Yunus observed that the nature of security challenges is rapidly shifting due to advancements in technology and faster information exchange.
“Providing absolute security has become increasingly challenging,” he said, adding that despite various limitations, the SSF has been performing its duties commendably. He emphasized the importance of continuous assessment of emerging threats and taking appropriate countermeasures.
The Chief Adviser noted that the SSF recently enhanced cyber security at the State Guest House Jamuna and expressed hope that similar improvements would be made at the CAO.