Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Waker-Uz-Zaman, spoke to all officers at the Army Headquarters (AHQ) in Dhaka on Wednesday, where he categorically stated that there will not be any Humanitarian Corridor and no port will be given to foreigners until an elected government takes office in the country.
Sources say that his address was followed by an energetic interactive session with online participation by officers.
General Zaman underlined that the Bangladesh Army will never accept anything that can undermine the country's sovereignty or territorial integrity. His words found indulgent rounds of applause with the people present.
The COAS expressed strong reservations regarding the interim government of Muhammad Yunus, condemning it for taking decisions without consulting the Armed Forces.
On elections, General Zaman said a properly elected government has to be formed by January 1, 2026, after "free and fair" elections, after which the army will go back to their barracks.
Praising some of the personal qualities of Yunus, he did criticize some of the "foreigners" in the interim government for irresponsible actions, warning that they will go back to their countries if things worsen.
He underscored the importance of Bangladesh's 1972 Constitution and warned against any large-scale amendments. The General was perplexed about the so-called "July Declaration" and avoided talks regarding the ouster of the President of Bangladesh as "meaningless and hollow."
Zaman also emphasized that instances of violence by mobs and lawlessness would not be accepted and would be handled firmly. He warned protesting Army officers that their irresponsible behavior would come into public glare if continued.
It was also observed that no senior officers present asked questions during the meeting. However, General Zaman received and responded to queries from officers from Captain to Lieutenant Colonel.
On the issue of reforms before the General Elections, he appealed for patience among the officers and assured them that their input would be considered.
In the course of the discussion, one of the officers reaffirmed the non-negotiable character of the Liberation War heritage and national prestige of the nation and asserted that they can never be compromised.
No issues were raised about prohibition on the Awami League party.
Syndicate insiders characterized General Zaman as firm and determined in his speech, which was greeted with thunderous applause from the officer ranks.
The officers conveyed their collective support for the COAS and demonstrated their willingness to obey him.
Read also| U.S. Military to Reassess Chaotic 2021 Afghanistan Withdrawal
