Army clarifies why it sheltered AL ministers, MPs

By Staff Reporter

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman acknowledged that the army is providing shelter to ministers and lawmakers of the ousted Awami League government.

Clarifying his stance, the Army chief said, “Of course we have given them [Awami League ministers and lawmakers] shelter. If there are complaints against them, if cases are filed, they will be brought to book.

“But we do not want any extrajudicial activity or attacks. We have sheltered them because of the threat to their lives. Be it of any party, be it of opinion, be it of religion, we will see to their security.”

Waker-Uz-Zaman said this in response to a question during a press briefing at Rajshahi cantonment on August 13.

He added, “We have spoken to everyone including Ansar, RAB, and BGB. The situation has now calmed down. I would say that the law and order situation is now completely under our control. The police are somewhat traumatized.

“After overcoming their trauma, the police will be able to perform their duties properly. The police have already started working in various police stations. We are providing protection to them. Once they become fully operational, the situation will become more normal. Then we will go back to the cantonment. We will stay and work till then.”

General Waker-Uz-Zaman said, “Regarding the issue of minorities, I saw that there was absolutely no such incident here – in these eight districts [the eight districts of Rajshahi Division].

“This is a very positive aspect, and such a beautiful atmosphere should be maintained. We will all work together and lead the country to progress. We want to move towards a better future.”

He then pointed out, “There is no issue centering minorities under the current situation of Bangladesh. There is no external pressure. The Army will give full support to the incumbent government in organizing an acceptable election following state reforms.”

Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner Dewan Muhammad Humayun Kabir, Rajshahi Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Anisur Rahman, District

Commissioner Shamim Ahmed, District Superintendent of Police (SP) Saifur Rahman and senior army officers were present at the brief.

Earlier the same day, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman discussed the law and order situation with local police, administration and other law enforcement officials in the cantonment.

Commissioner Shamim Ahmed, District Superintendent of Police (SP) Saifur Rahman and senior army officers were present at the brief.

Earlier the same day, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman discussed the law and order situation with local police, administration and other law enforcement officials in the cantonment.