Bangladesh Army Chief Assures Safety Amid Political Unrest

Bangladesh's Army Chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, confirmed providing shelter to influential individuals from the former Awami League government, emphasizing protection from attacks or extrajudicial actions. The assurance follows arrests of several high-profile politicians amid political chaos. The army also pledged support for upcoming reforms and a free election, while addressing incidents of minority-related violence.

Bangladesh's Army Chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman disclosed on Tuesday that influential figures from the ousted Awami League government have been given shelter to prevent any attack or extrajudicial action against them.

Speaking at Rajshahi Cantonment, Gen Zaman stated that those sheltered were from various party affiliations, opinions, and religions, as reported by the Daily Star newspaper.

'If there are allegations against them, they will be punished, but we want to avoid attacks or extrajudicial actions,' he clarified in response to a query.

His comments coincided with the arrest of former law minister Anisul Huq and Salman F Rahman, an adviser to ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka.

Last week, ex-foreign minister Hassan Mahmud and ex-state minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak were detained at Dhaka airport while attempting to flee after Hasina resigned amid deadly protests.

Reports indicate that many Awami League leaders and cabinet ministers have fled or are in hiding.

Asked about a potential counter-revolution, the army chief denied any knowledge. He also mentioned that there had been 30 minority-related attacks in 20 districts, promising to bring perpetrators to justice.

'The situation is normalizing, but the police are still traumatized. Once they recover, they will resume their duties properly,' stated Gen Zaman.

'We are protecting the police, and when they are fully functioning, we will return to the cantonment,' he added.

'We will assist the government in reforms and ensuring a free election,' he assured.

Gen Zaman also confirmed that many looted police arms have been recovered, with more recoveries expected soon.