Armed Forces Pass the Test of Neutrality and Professionalism

Such a peaceful, bloodless, and relatively free national election—when did the people of Bangladesh last witness one? That is truly a subject for research. Before the vote, there were numerous apprehensions. Concerns were raised about a deterioration of law and order, violence, militant attacks, and even rumors of a return to military rule. On social media, YouTube channels, and in some media outlets operating from abroad, various analyses were circulated that created fear and confusion among the public.But at the end of the day, reality presented us with a different picture.

Apart from a few isolated incidents, the election was peaceful. Voters went to polling centers, cast their ballots, and there were no major incidents of violence or bloodshed. Behind this reality, the institution that drew the most attention was the Bangladesh Armed Forces—particularly the Army.

From the moment the election schedule was announced, there were attempts to create suspicion and panic surrounding the polls. Some claimed law and order would collapse. Others warned of possible militant attacks. Still others alleged that the Army would act in a politically biased manner.

Certain media outlets based in India and Kolkata, along with some Bangladesh-origin YouTube analysts operating from abroad, made predictions that did not align with reality. These statements spread rapidly on social media, causing confusion among sections of the public. However, the encouraging fact is that the overall election process demonstrated that reality is stronger than rumors. The Army was deployed in the field, but it did not interfere in the voting process. Its presence was for security, not for exerting influence.

In the 13th National Parliamentary Election, approximately 108,000 members of the Army, Navy, and Air Force carried out duties. Around 200 drones were used to conduct surveillance in high-risk areas. Rapid response teams, mobile patrols, and coordinated control rooms were established—forming a well-planned security framework.

The objective of these preparations was to prevent potential violence and ensure a safe environment for voters. Importantly, this significant presence of the Armed Forces did not create panic. Rather, many voters stated that the presence of the Army gave them the confidence to go to polling centers.

During the authoritarian rule of the deposed autocrat Sheikh Hasina, controversies emerged regarding the role of the Army. In particular, the conduct of certain officers and specific political contexts at times placed the institution under scrutiny. As a result, this election was an opportunity for image rebuilding.

In today’s election, the Army’s conduct was restrained and lawful. It operated in accordance with the directives of the Election Commission. It did not interfere inside polling centers. In the use of force, it adhered to the principles of necessity and proportionality. This demonstrated that institutional professionalism stands above individual conduct.

To evaluate a large institution, one must consider its overall behavior, not isolated incidents. From the announcement of the election schedule onward, the Army’s role was positive. In the context of Bangladesh, a neutral and professional security framework is essential to ensure a free and fair election.

The Army has previously set examples of neutrality during various national crises. Its reputation in international peacekeeping missions also proves that it is capable of operating according to professional standards. Therefore, there was no alternative to its neutral and professional role in election-time security.

Alongside the Armed Forces, the administrative preparation of the interim government, as well as the coordinated efforts of the Bangladesh Police, BGB, Ansar-VDP, and Coast Guard, were also crucial behind the success of this election. This truth must be acknowledged.

In a democratic system, an election becomes successful only when all institutions operate within their respective constitutional boundaries. This election reflected such coordination.

This election has shown us that rumors and misinformation are no substitute for reality. To earn public trust, professional conduct must be demonstrated in the field. The Army has shown that it is a constitutional institution of the state—not of any political party. This position is equally important for the future.

Because maintaining trust is an even greater responsibility. A successful election sends a positive message, but it also raises expectations. Therefore, this neutrality must be preserved in the future as well.

In fact, the 13th National Parliamentary Election was a major test for the state, for democracy, and for the Armed Forces. The post-election reality indicates that the Armed Forces have demonstrated neutrality and professionalism.

The path of democracy is always long, but when there is trust, that journey becomes much easier. This election has largely revitalized that trust.

Writer: Journalist, Columnist and Political Analyst, Dhaka.

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