Bangladesh’s Political Tensions Rise Amid Military Comments
On Wednesday, discussions surrounding a potential divide between the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, and the military intensified after Army Secretary General Waker Uz Zaman indicated that a transition should happen by December.
During an address to army officers at a Dhaka Cantonment event, General Zaman emphasized that his stance on elections remains unchanged, stating that only an elected government can shape the nation’s future.
These comments surfaced against the backdrop of claims that Yunus’s interim administration, which assumed power in August, was established in response to significant protests that forced former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to flee the country.
Local sources report that activities such as meetings and processions have been prohibited near the residence of the Army Chief, Senna Niwas.
In his speech, General Zaman also discussed initiatives surrounding a “humanitarian corridor” aimed at addressing the Rohingya crisis, asserting that any decisions on this matter should come from a democratically elected government, according to Bangladeshi media outlets.
The interim government is reportedly striving to gain military support for this corridor plan while seeking help from foreign diplomats, but so far, their efforts seem to have fallen short.
General Zaman reiterated the Army’s intention to avoid actions that might jeopardize national sovereignty, implying that the interim government is temporary until elections can be held.
He expressed uncertainty about the ongoing reforms since they have not been communicated with him. Analysts suggest that his remarks might indicate a tendency of the interim government to move operations of the new Moored Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattgram Port to foreign enterprises. Zaman remarked that “this decision should be made by the political government.”
Despite reports of discord with the military, the interim government dismissed such assertions. They acknowledged hearing various rumors but described them as mere speculation that tends to escalate over time.
In response to inquiries regarding the discussions about law and order, he mentioned the presence of military personnel within the country and noted that their operations necessitate scrutiny. “These subjects have been deliberated,” he stated.
He added, “There are rumors about General Waker, but I can’t pinpoint who is promoting them. It seems like there are efforts to sow discord in the nation by circulating these rumors.”
