Professor Dr. M A Rashid :
During the movement for the fall of Sheikh Hasina, the armed forces played an important role in maintaining the country’s stability by respecting the people’s natural aspirations and opinions. When political instability and disorder became widespread, the armed forces stepped in as mediators and acted as effective guardians of peace. They duly recognized the moral right of the public movement and took cautious professional steps to safeguard the interests of the state and the safety of the people.
This role of the armed forces greatly contributed to maintaining peace and order, strengthening the foundation of national unity and stability. Such intelligent and responsible conduct further enhanced public trust and respect toward the armed forces.
On August 5, the army’s prompt preparedness and ability to bring the situation under control quickly was of utmost importance. In moments of security crises, unrest, or fear of disorder, the army reached the scene rapidly and took steps to keep the situation stable. Using modern communication systems and real-time monitoring, the army ensured early alerts and deployed forces to high-risk areas, which helped in quick containment of unrest or untoward incidents.
The presence of trained army personnel in areas of unrest, conflict, or instability acted as a deterrent. Their presence not only maintained order but also restored normalcy quickly, ensuring public safety and reinforcing social stability. As a result, the army became a trusted and reliable force in controlling instability and disorder. Their actions were designed to minimize unnecessary harm to civilian life and restore normalcy as soon as possible, thereby ensuring stability and public safety.
This efficiency reinforced the overall security and legal structure of the country, ensuring political order and reducing the risks of disorder or civil conflict. Without the army’s involvement, it would have been impossible to form such a quick and effective mechanism to restore confidence in governance.
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman called for maintaining discipline and professionalism through directives to the entire force on August 5. At that time, the army reassured the nation of its commitment to discipline and professionalism under the leadership of the army chief, reflecting awareness, integrity, and dedication.
This approach not only paved the way for political stability but also conveyed a positive message to Bangladesh’s international community. The Army Chief’s efforts helped maintain discipline and order within the force, ensuring unity and professionalism in service to the country’s stability and honor.
In summary, General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s leadership and the army’s efficiency have been crucial in maintaining discipline and upholding national unity. In the following days, the army remained committed to supporting the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus and continues to do so.
The army’s complete loyalty to the people under the leadership of the army chief is a historic and significant development for the country’s stability and public trust. When police and bureaucracy were struggling to manage the situation, the army stepped forward with neutrality, discipline, and professionalism to protect the people’s interests.
This active presence not only strengthened public trust in the armed forces but also established them as a vital pillar for the country’s democracy and social stability. The army’s unity and professionalism under the army chief’s leadership have been essential for maintaining national unity and public confidence.
BDR (now Border Guard Bangladesh) and RAB (Rapid Action Battalion) operate under the Ministry of Home Affairs and are not part of the army. Similarly, DGFI (Directorate General of Forces Intelligence) and NSI (National Security Intelligence) work under the Prime Minister’s Office and are not part of the army. Therefore, their work, control, and laws fall under government jurisdiction.
The 2009 BDR mutiny was a tragic chapter in Bangladesh’s military and security history. The full responsibility for its handling lies with the government, though the army suffered loss of personnel and property. The army has consistently demanded justice in that case.
The public is closely watching the government’s judicial process, and it is essential to ensure fair and transparent justice to establish the rule of law and prevent such incidents in the future. Through justice, not only will the families of the army be reassured, but public confidence in governance and security will also be restored.
Although some elements in the government have attempted to undermine the army for political or personal gain, the strong leadership and professionalism of the army chief have made such attempts unsuccessful. His approach has kept the army neutral, disciplined, and committed to protecting the constitution and national interests.
On August 3, days before the fall of Sheikh Hasina, the army chief convened a gathering of the entire forces and urged them to stand firmly by the people during the national crisis. At that time, fears of foreign interference were strong, but his prudent leadership, swift decisions, and strategic measures effectively neutralized those concerns. Under his guidance, the army acted in unity and discipline, making a vital contribution to the nations security and stability.
Even when attempts were made to cause division within the army or disrupt discipline, the army chief acted swiftly and effectively through monitoring, directives, and prompt intervention. His measures have kept the army united, disciplined, and dedicated to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and stability.
In various situations—such as extreme unrest, disorder caused by Awami League-affiliated groups, and incidents in Gopalganj—the army’s strong and impartial intervention ensured stability. They have shown they are committed not only to security but also to preserving national unity.
Over the past year, the army’s continued presence has been vital in preventing crime, violence, looting, and political unrest. Their patrols, rapid deployments, and coordination with the public have helped maintain law and order. This has strengthened public trust in the army as a protector of national unity and stability.
Traditionally, the army steps in during political or law-and-order crises as a neutral force between government and people. Their impartial approach prevents escalation into widespread instability or violence. This role helps ensure smooth governance even during crises.
However, when political powers attempt to use the army for partisan purposes, it harms not only the army’s neutrality but also national security. It is therefore crucial to prevent political interference in the army through constitutional safeguards, institutional reforms, and strong, transparent leadership. Army personnel must be reminded that their loyalty is to the constitution, state, and people—not to any political leader.
In this regard, disciplinary measures have been taken against some officers, and legal action has been initiated where necessary. This ensures discipline and impartiality while sending a clear message that no one in the army is above the law. Such firm actions protect the integrity, neutrality, and stability of the armed forces.
Due to the inefficiency and failure of the political system to resolve key national crises, the army has been forced to intervene to protect national interests. Attempts to undermine the army chief’s authority or damage his reputation are threats to national security. The army chief’s authority, morale, and neutrality are essential to the stability and sovereignty of the country.
The army remains the main pillar in defending the nation’s sovereignty, and preserving public trust and respect toward it is critically important. Any political attempt to damage the army’s image or morale could threaten national stability and security. Therefore, all sectors of the state must respect the army’s professionalism and neutrality and promote its role in protecting national interests.
Even though there are ongoing efforts by some political forces to influence or manipulate the army, it has stood firm in its historic role as an unshakable shield for Bangladesh’s sovereignty. Any such attempts must be countered with national unity and public support. Public trust, confidence, and unconditional respect for the army are essential for preserving the country’s independence and sovereignty.
(The author is a Senior Fellow, SIPG, North South University Email: [email protected])
