In an interview with Reuters on Tuesday, General Zaman expressed strong support for the interim administration, headed by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. He stressed the importance of keeping political influence out of the military and endorsed Yunus’s mission to reform key state institutions like the judiciary, police, and financial bodies.
“I will stand beside him, come what may, to help him accomplish his mission,” General Zaman declared, pointing out that these reforms are necessary for the conduct of free and fair elections in a country of over 170 million people.
Having assumed his position shortly before Hasina’s departure, General Zaman foresees a transition to democracy within 12 to 18 months. He urged patience and highlighted his close cooperation with Yunus, noting their weekly meetings as crucial in stabilizing the nation after the recent turmoil.
The army chief also affirmed that the Bangladesh Army would maintain its professional standing and stay clear of political matters. "I am a professional soldier. I would like to keep my army professional," he said, noting the ongoing efforts to address any misconduct within the military as part of the broader reform agenda.
One of the interim government’s notable initiatives has been the formation of a five-member commission, headed by a former high court judge, to investigate the disappearances of up to 600 individuals allegedly abducted by security forces since 2009. General Zaman reiterated his commitment to bringing any culpable military personnel to justice but did not provide further details.
He further advocated for constitutional reforms that would place the armed forces directly under the president’s control, instead of the prime minister-led defense ministry, to prevent future political misuse of the military.
"The military must not be used for political purposes ever," General Zaman emphasized. "A soldier must not indulge in politics."
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