Stay above politics, uphold sovereignty

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday directed the members of the armed forces to remain above party-affiliation and uphold the country’s sovereignty and dignity of the constitution.
He also urged them to maintain public trust, and stay committed to serving the nation with integrity, dedication, and sacrifice.
The prime minister gave the directives at a darbar held for the members of Bangladesh armed forces at the Dhaka Cantonment Auditorium, reads an Inter Services Public Relations press release.
On arrival, he was received by his Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, the chiefs of Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force and the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division.
The prime minister said the armed forces are not the property of any particular individual, family or party, adding that commitment to the constitution and the unwavering trust of the people must be the core base of the armed forces.
Referring to the Pilkhana massacre, he said the army was damaged through that incident and in subsequent times, there were attempts to make the force controversial for various activities.
He highlighted the contribution of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in modernising the army, and urged for maintaining the strong spirit that had developed in the army since that time.
 “If there are united armed forces, no one can defeat Bangladesh,” he added.
The prime minister lauded Bangladesh Army’s participation in the UN peacekeeping mission as a major achievement, saying it had reached a higher level internationally during the BNP government.

“We want an armed force that will be respected by external powers and trusted by the country’s people,” he said while appreciating the forces’ professionalism, discipline, and contributions in safeguarding national security and enhancing Bangladesh’s image in the international arena. He particularly commended their role in maintaining the overall law and order in the country since August 2024 and in ensuring the smooth and successful completion of the 13th national parliamentary election.
Tarique Rahman assured full government support to enhance the future capabilities, modernisation and effective participation of the armed forces in national development. Senior military and civil officials stationed in Dhaka, along with members of different ranks, attended the darbar. Members stationed in other parts of the country joined the event through video teleconference.

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