Bangladesh’s Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, has made a troubling habit of speaking publicly on political matters. His latest remarks—warning of a national crisis and emphasizing the need for unity—are not incorrect, but they cross a line that should not be blurred. Military leaders must remain apolitical, leaving governance and political discourse to elected civilian leadership.
Speaking at a memorial event for the 2009 BDR tragedy, General Waker declared, “I am warning you. You cannot later say that I did not warn you.” The urgency in his tone was clear. However, such statements, when delivered in a public forum rather than in private discussions with civilian leaders, risk creating instability rather than preventing it. They can be misinterpreted as political interventions, raising concerns about the military’s role in governance.
General Waker also commented on the upcoming national elections, stating that Bangladesh is moving toward a “free, fair, and inclusive” process. While electoral integrity is crucial, the military should not be a vocal participant in this conversation. Its role is to ensure security, not to shape political narratives.
A strong democracy requires a clear separation between civilian governance and military authority. If General Waker has concerns about national security, stability, or political unrest, he should voice them directly to the prime minister (chief advisor), cabinet, or relevant authorities—not the public. His position carries weight, and his words can either reinforce democracy or undermine it.
Bangladesh has a history of political turbulence, and the military has played significant roles in past transitions. To ensure that the country stays on a democratic path, the army must remain a professional institution focused on defense, not politics. General Waker would do well to remember that leadership in a democracy means respecting boundaries. If he truly wants to safeguard the nation’s future, he should express his concerns behind closed doors—not from the podium.