PM Tarique Rahman inaugurates Army Selection Board 2026

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday (July 26) inaugurated the Army Selection Board-2026, formally launching the promotion process for Bangladesh Army officers holding the ranks of Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the Army Headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment.

In his address, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the Proclaimer of Independence, martyred President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, as well as the martyrs, war-wounded freedom fighters and veterans of the Liberation War.

He also honoured Army personnel who were killed or injured while serving in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

"The sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty will always be remembered with gratitude by the nation," he said.

Describing promotions as one of the military's most important institutional processes, the Prime Minister emphasized that personal preferences or political affiliations must play no role in promotion decisions.

He instructed members of the selection board to place the highest priority on officers' professional competence, leadership qualities, discipline, integrity, loyalty, trustworthiness and overall performance during the evaluation process.

The Prime Minister also praised the Bangladesh Army for its continued role in safeguarding national sovereignty, maintaining internal stability and law and order, and supporting the civil administration during natural disasters and national emergencies.

He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and all members of the Armed Forces for carrying out their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism.

Earlier, upon his arrival at Army Headquarters, the Prime Minister was received by the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of General Staff (CGS).

Speaking at the event, the Army Chief thanked the Prime Minister for inaugurating the selection board, saying his presence would further inspire the officers entrusted with the promotion process.

The ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister's Defence Adviser, Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, PSC, G, along with senior Army officials.

Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister joined a photo session with senior military officers and signed the visitors' book.