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Bangladesh army chief calls for neutrality ahead of 2026 general election

Bangladesh army chief calls for neutrality ahead of 2026 general election

Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman speaks at the Shariatpur district circuit house on Tuesday. (Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha)

ISLAMABAD: Bangladesh Army Chief Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman urged security forces and civil officials to maintain professionalism and neutrality as the country prepares for national elections, according to state media reports Tuesday.


According to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the army chief made the remarks at a meeting in Shariatpur, a town 86 kilometers from the capital, Dhaka. 


He addressed senior military officers, law enforcement officials and civil administrators. Officials from three districts in central Bangladesh attended the meeting.


The country’s Inter Services Public Relations Directorate said the meeting was part of the army chief's nationwide visits. The visits come ahead of the 2026 general election on Feb. 12. They coincide with a national referendum in which citizens will vote on major constitutional changes, including a two-term limit for the prime minister.


During the meeting, participants discussed coordination among government agencies and security planning. The focus is on a peaceful, impartial and fair vote.


Senior commanders attended, including the head of the Army Training and Doctrine Command. The head of the 9 Infantry Division and Savar Area Commander was also present. Senior officers from the army headquarters and the Savar area attended.


Senior civil officials, law enforcement representatives and media representatives were also present.