New Delhi: Sounding a warning against internal rifts in the country, Bangladesh army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman blamed infighting behind the worsening law and order. Zaman pointed out that the unrest raging across Bangladesh is “created by us”.
Addressing an audience at an army memorial event on the 2009 Bangladesh Rifles Mutiny (BDR) event on Tuesday, Zaman cautioned that the progress made from the student-led uprising that led to the ouster of the previous government last August could be marred if the country remains mired in political conflict, according to local media reports.
‘Work towards national integration’
During his speech in Bangla, he said, “Forget all differences, all evil thoughts, and work towards uplifting the country and national integration.” He warned that if you cannot move past your differences and keep interfering and fighting among yourselves, the country’s independence and integrity will be at peril.
The remarks follow a war of words on Sunday between the student unions of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami, as both sides accused each other of sparking the violence that has paralyzed the country.
Zaman pointed out that the raging infighting was giving miscreants an opportunity to flourish, and some believe they could act without facing any action in the midst of the chaos.
He underscored the need for patience and dedication in carrying out professional responsibilities. Zaman stated that the army’s task had taken longer than anticipated but remained crucial to the nation’s stability.
‘Back Yunus’
The Bangladesh army chief stressed that free and fair elections should be held by December this year. Zaman urged the people to back Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, in his efforts to stabilise the country and take it towards a peaceful and democratic future. “Let’s collectively repose our faith in him.”
After former PM Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh in August last year, Zaman vowed his unwavering backing for the country’s interim government, ensuring it would implement vital reforms so that elections are held within the next 18 months.
