United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday urged the top leadership of the Armed Forces to maintain the highest level of caution during the election period, warning that any lapse in lawful, restrained and responsible conduct at the field level could erode public confidence in the process. “The referendum and the national election scheduled for February 12 represent an extremely critical juncture for Bangladesh’s democratic future,” he said while addressing a views-exchange meeting with senior Armed Forces officers at Army Headquarters. At this sensitive time, the role of the Bangladesh Armed Forces is crucial in ensuring a free, fair, impartial and festive electoral environment, he added. Prof Yunus urged maximum vigilance to ensure a free, fair and credible election, describing the upcoming referendum and national polls as a decisive moment in the country’s democratic transition. Govt moves to merge BIDA, BEZA, BEPZA, MIDA Expressing confidence in the Armed Forces, he said the government remains hopeful that, as a symbol of public trust, they will once again discharge their duties with professionalism, neutrality and a strong sense of responsibility, as demonstrated in the past. The Chief Adviser paid deep respect to the martyrs of the Great Liberation War and those who lost their lives during the July–August student-people uprising. He also expressed gratitude for the Armed Forces’ role in maintaining peace and stability across the country. He said the role played by the Armed Forces in controlling the law-and-order situation during the post-fascist period would remain a memorable chapter in the nation’s history. Prof Yunus said a nation long deprived of voting rights expressed its aspiration to take responsibility for its own future through the July 2024 uprising, adding that participation in the forthcoming elections would be the ultimate expression of that aspiration. “The referendum will allow people to express their views on shaping the future state system, while the national election will enable them to elect suitable representatives to implement those views,” he said, adding that the significance of the upcoming polls far exceeds that of previous elections. The Chief Adviser said a large number of young voters would cast their ballots for the first time, while many older citizens would return to the polls after being deprived of voting rights for a prolonged period. “In this context, it is our collective responsibility to ensure a fear-free and festive voting environment for all voters. The Armed Forces would be a crucial partner in fulfilling this responsibility,” he said. The Chief Adviser said that free, fair and acceptable elections form the foundation of a democratic state, stressing the need to provide maximum support to the administration and the Election Commission so that every citizen can exercise their franchise without fear or undue influence. Making a call for collective efforts, he urged all concerned to move forward on the path towards a peaceful, stable and democratic Bangladesh. Referring to the Armed Forces, Prof Yunus said their capabilities had been neglected during a prolonged period of fascist rule, adding that the interim government has taken initiatives to modernise and strengthen the Forces since assuming office. Spain’s deadly train crash saddens Prof Yunus He said initiatives are underway to establish factories for manufacturing military arms and equipment under Armed Forces management to enhance self-reliance and capacity. Prof Yunus also said defence cooperation memoranda have already been signed with the Netherlands and Malaysia, while processes are underway to sign similar agreements with several other countries, including Italy, Japan and Thailand. Senior officers of the Army, Navy and Air Force, along with invited guests, were present at the meeting.

The government of Bangladesh has once again extended the magistracy power of commissioned officers in the Army, Navy and Air Force until February 28, 2026, with effect from November 12 (Wednesday). The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification to this effect on Tuesday (November 11). Read more: Armed forces' magistracy powers extended by 60 days According to the notification, commissioned officers holding the rank of captain and above in the Bangladesh Armed Forces have been granted special executive magistrate powers across the country. Army officers serving on deputation in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have also been vested with the same authority. The interim government initially granted the magistracy power to commissioned army officers on September 17 last year for 60 days to improve law and order. It was subsequently extended on January 12, March 13, May 13 and July 13 this year. Read more: Govt vows to protect interfaith unity, communal harmony

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has instructed the chiefs of the three armed services to take all necessary measures to ensure flawless security ahead of the 13th National Parliament election, scheduled for the first half of February. He gave the directives during a meeting with Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral Mohammad Nazmul Hasan, and Air Chief Marshal Hassan Mahmud Khan at the State Guest House Jamuna on Saturday evening. CA’s office asks officials to avoid foreign travels until election National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman was also present. During the meeting, Professor Yunus commended the armed forces for their contributions in maintaining national security and law and order over the past 15 months. He reiterated that the interim government is determined to hold the elections in February in a free, fair, impartial, peaceful and festive manner. Forces from inside-outside country may work to thwart election: Prof Yunus    The chiefs of the three services briefed the Chief Adviser on the military’s preparations for the elections. A total of 90,000 army personnel, 2,500 navy personnel, and a number of air force personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order. One company of soldiers will be stationed in each upazila. The military chiefs also invited the Chief Adviser to attend the Armed Forces Day celebrations on 21 November. Cooperatives can help build an equal and self-reliant Bangladesh: Prof Yunus  

The government has once again extended the magistracy power of commissioned officers in the Army, Navy and Air Force by another 60 days with effect from July 14 (Monday). The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification to this effect on Sunday. According to the notification, commissioned officers holding the rank of captain and above in the Bangladesh Armed Forces have been granted special executive magistrate powers across the country. Armed forces' magistracy powers extended by 60 days Military officers serving on deputation in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have also been vested with the same authority. The interim government initially granted the magistracy power to commissioned army officers on September 17 last year for 60 days to improve law and order. It was subsequently extended on January 12, March 13 and May 13 this year.

The government has extended the magistracy powers of commissioned officers in the Army, Navy and Air Force for another 60 days with effect from March 15. The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification to this effect on Thursday. According to the notification, commissioned officers holding the rank of captain and above in the Bangladesh Armed Forces have been granted special executive magistrate powers across the country. Military officers serving on deputation in the Coast Guard and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have also been vested with the same authority. The interim government initially granted magistracy powers to commissioned army officers on September 17 last year for 60 days to improve law and order. The powers were subsequently extended on January 12 this year for another 60 days. DMP restricts public gathering at some designated spots On February 24, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, emphasised the army's commitment to maintaining stability. "We initially thought the task would be completed quickly, allowing us to return to the cantonment. However, we have been working for a long period. We must exercise patience and fulfil our professional responsibilities with dedication," he said. Earlier, on November 19 last year, General Waker noted that the Bangladesh Army was diligently performing its duties to improve the law-and-order situation. He urged army personnel to exercise magistracy powers responsibly to maintain peace and public order, underscoring the military's role as a symbol of public trust. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus also acknowledged the army's significant role in stabilising the country. On October 6 last year, he said, "The Bangladesh Army stood by the people during the crisis and expedited the formation of the interim government," highlighting public trust in the armed forces. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has assured that military personnel will return to their barracks once the police regain full operational capacity.

Victory Day symbolises strong bonds of friendship between Bangladesh and India, made eternal by shared sacrifices of the valiant Freedom Fighters and Indian soldiers, said the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. "Greetings from High Commission of India, Dhaka to the People of Bangladesh on the occasion of 54th Victory Day," the High Commission said. BGB pays homage to Bir Shrestha Nur Mohammad on Victory Day Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar conveyed greetings to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain and the people of Bangladesh on Victory Day. In a reflection of shared history and long-standing friendship and harmony, Bangladesh and Indian Armed Forces came together to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the Liberation War of 1971 on the occasion of Victory Day on 16 December.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has expressed the confidence that the Armed Forces will continue their collaboration with people to protect Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty. In a statement marking Armed Forces Day, Prof Yunus underscored the vital role of the Army, Navy and Air Force during the Liberation War, highlighting their contributions to the country's hard-fought freedom. The Chief Adviser extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the members of the Army, Navy and Air Force on the occasion of Armed Forces Day 2024. “I pay my deepest respect to all the brave martyrs, including those from the Armed Forces, who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Bangladesh’s freedom,” Prof Yunus said. He also focused on the decisive moment of the Liberation War, saying, “On November 21, the fearless members of the Armed Forces launched a counterattack against the occupying forces, alongside the Liberation Army, paramilitary forces, and patriotic citizens. This coordinated effort ultimately led to victory on December 16, when the invading forces were defeated.” Armed Forces Day, celebrated on November 21 each year, commemorates the progress and triumph of the Bengali nation during the Liberation War. Prof Yunus acknowledged the ongoing contributions of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation, noting their vital role in responding to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, storms, and cyclones. “As always, the Bangladesh Armed Forces have stood by people during critical times and they continue to do so now,” he said. The Chief Adviser also recognised the Armed Forces' support in aiding the civil administration, managing student uprisings, providing security to industries, restoring law and order, and recovering weapons. “I am hopeful that the members of the Armed Forces will continue to work alongside the people to protect the nation’s independence and sovereignty,” he added. Should reform education system to create generation of entrepreneurs: Prof Yunus Prof Yunus wished success for all the activities and programmes planned for Armed Forces Day 2024.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Thursday paid tributes to the martyred members of the Bangladesh Armed Forces at the Shikha Anirban (flame eternal) at Dhaka Cantonment. The president paid the homage by placing a wreath at the Shikha Anirban at 11.20am. After laying the wreath, he stood in solemn silence for some time as a mark of profound respect to the memories of the armed forces martyrs, who made supreme sacrifices during the War of Liberation in 1971. A smartly-turned out contingent drawn from Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force presented a guard of honour at that time, while the bugle played the last post. Later, President Shahabuddin, also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, signed the visitors' book there. Also read: Sheikh Hasina ignored all the conspiracies to build Padma Bridge: President Shahabuddin Earlier, Chief of General Staff(CGS) of Bangladesh Army Lieutenant General Ataul Hakim Sarwar Hasan on behalf of Army Chief General SM Shafiudin Ahmed,  Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Shaheen Iqbal and Chief of Air Staff of Air Chief Marshal Shaikh Abdul Hannan received the president on his arrival at the Shikha Anirban. The president also paid tributes to Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib and other August 15 martyrs. He placed wreaths at her grave at the Banani Graveyard in the capital this noon and stood in solemn silence for some time. President's wife Dr Rebecca Sultana was also present. They also spread flower petals on the graves of Bangamata and other August 15 martyrs. Besides, they offered fateha and prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls of the martyrs of August 15.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said the armed forces are being developed appropriately to give fitting reply if the country comes under attack by any external forces. “If external forces attack, we have to face that. For that we have to build up appropriate armed forces and accordingly we have taken various steps,” she said. The prime minister said this while addressing the 10th Tigers’ Reunion of the East Bengal Regiment at Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA). She said that Bangladesh does not want to engage in war with anyone. “We believe in the policy of friendship to all and malice to none. This policy was formulated by the Father of the Nation,” she said. Briefly describing various development activities of the government to modernise Bangladesh Army, she said that Sheikh Russell cantonment has recently been established in Mawa-Jazira while construction of new cantonments is under way in Mithamin, Rajbari and Trishal. “Construction of Army Aviation Forward Bases at Chattogram and Cox's Bazar and Aviation School at Lalmonirhat is also in progress,” she said.  Also read: PM urges South Korea for more investments in Bangladesh She mentioned that the government has added new composite brigade and para commando brigade in the army. “Sophisticated and up-to-date weapons are being procured for each force,” she said. She said that the government wants to transform Bangladesh as a country of peace. “For that we have adopted zero tolerance policy against terrorism and militancy," she said. The PM said that Bangladesh has faced COVID-19 pandemic successfully. But she mentioned that Russia-Ukraine war and subsequent sanctions caused economic recession across the globe where developed countries have also been affected. Also read; Next national polls will be free and fair: PM Hasina tells US official “Food prices in various countries increased excessively, and there is trouble in getting foods also,” she said. She said that the land of Bangladesh is fertile while people are very much skilled. “I want that every citizen of the country will cultivate whatever land one has so that the blow of world economic recession can not hit Bangladesh,” she said. Hasina said that the government has increased country’s food production and ensured food security. “It is true, but alongside of that we have to continue this (increased food production) until this (Russia-Ukraine) war stops and the world get rid of the economic recession,” she said. She urged all to work hard ensure that the global economic recession does not affect Bangladesh. At the programme the PM took salute and also inspected the parade riding on an open jeep. She witnessed the spectacular parade of a smartly-turned out contingent of East Bengal Regiment followed by a colourful cultural programme.  

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday lauded the country’s military for standing by the side the people during natural disasters and other crisis. “I believe that our army is now truly the people's army. The armed forces stand beside the people during any disaster and accident and extend their cooperation to them,” she said. The premier was addressing a civic and military gathering at a reception arranged at Senakunja of Dhaka Cantonment on the occasion of the Armed Forces Day 2022. Read more: Bangladesh has changed a lot under Awami League govt: PM Hasina We want peace, not war: Hasina said Bangladesh doesn’t want war against anyone, but instead wants peace and friendly relations with all the countries. “We’ll not fight against anyone. We want peace,” she said. The PM said Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had framed the policy of ‘Friendship to All, Malice to None’ (the cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy) and this is being followed by her government. On this day during the War of Liberation in 1971, the Bangladesh Armed Forces comprising Army, Navy and Air Force, came into being and launched an all-out attack on the Pakistani occupation forces which accelerated the victory in the Liberation War. Since the independence of the country, this historic day is observed as the Armed Forces Day. She said her government has relentlessly been working for the socio-economic uplift of the common people of the country by keeping the friendly relations with all countries of the world in line with the policy. Bangladesh out of this situation: PM Sheikh Hasina said her government can take ahead the development programmes since a democratic trend continues now, but unfortunately the Covid-19 pandemic affected the progress of the country. She said the prices of commodities and transport cost soared significantly due to the Ukraine-Russia war and sanctions following the pandemic. “Even then we’ve been trying as much as possible so that our people don’t suffer (from price-hikes of essentials),” she said, adding that they are trying to purchase from every possible source to ease their sufferings.  Read more: Armed Forces Day: PM pays tribute at Shikha Anirban She focused on the ongoing food programmes run by the government to support the poor people amid this crisis. “We’ve been implementing all sorts of steps to improve the life and livelihood of the people,” she added. The PM said Bangladesh was recognised as a role model for development, but the pandemic, war and sanctions have put the country largely into trouble. Economic recession is now seen everywhere including the UK, the US and Europe, she added. “In this situation, our economy still remains vibrant and is moving. But with cooperation from all, we would definitely be able to take it out of this situation (trouble),” said Hasina. She reiterated her call to grow more foods and cultivate every piece of arable land. Focusing on her government’s steps to modernise the armed forces, the premier said she has developed every force and built up every institute so that the Army, Navy and Air Force can move, keeping the pace with the world as the Armed Forces of Bangladesh are working in the United Nations peacekeeping missions. She said the peacekeepers of Bangladesh have been working in the UN missions for 34 years with dedication and pride. Now Bangladesh is the largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping operations, she added. PM’s Security Affairs Adviser Major Gen (retd) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and the chiefs of the three services were present. Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, cabinet members, political leaders, foreign diplomats, leading figures representing different professions, editors, senior civil and military officials and their spouses, among others, attended the reception.