They are around our children’s age, will understand their mistakes when older: Army Chief

Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman responded to criticisms of the army, saying, “There is no need to be upset by such remarks. Those making them are young, around the age of our children. When they grow older, they will understand their mistakes and feel embarrassed.”

He delivered these remarks on Tuesday at the ‘Officers Address’ event held at Dhaka Cantonment, addressing army personnel. Some officers attended in person, while others from various army installations across the country joined virtually.

The Army Chief said, “The country is now moving toward elections. The army is fully prepared to assist the government in conducting a free, fair, and impartial election. Soldiers have been serving in the field for a long time—longer than ever before. Therefore, it is important to maintain good relationships with everyone and remove any distance or misunderstandings.”

He further said, “The people of the country are now looking at the army. You are the future of the nation. You must be motivated by patriotism and maintain the army’s chain of command.”

“The army is a professional organization. Professionalism must be maintained while performing duties in the field. No one should engage in acts of revenge,” the Army Chief added.

Without naming anyone, he said, “An army personnel is under investigation for alleged links with a political party. If the allegations are proven, action will be taken. No army member can engage in political activities. Another officer is under investigation for allegations of assault against a woman. No one will be spared in cases of moral misconduct. However, no one will be punished based solely on a media trial; action will be taken if the allegations are proven.”

General Waker-uz-Zaman also told senior officers, “The state spends significant money to train an army officer. Measures must be taken in advance to prevent anyone from committing crimes. Sending an officer home after they commit a crime is nothing but a waste of state resources.”