Former military officials have called for the immediate return of the armed forces to their barracks, emphasizing that the armed forces should not be involved in confronting the civilian population. They argue that such a situation is contrary to the principles of the armed forces, which have historically not faced or engaged with the general public in this manner.
At a press conference held at the Retired Armed Forces Officers Welfare Association (RAOWA Club), General Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan read a statement on behalf of the retired military officials. The conference was attended by 48 former senior officers, including former Army Chief Lieutenant General Nuruddin Khan.
Key Points from the Statement:
- Concerns Over Violence: General Bhuiyan expressed deep concern and sorrow over the ongoing violence, which has included killings, torture, disappearances, and mass arrests. He highlighted the tragic loss of young lives and the suffering inflicted on civilians. The statement condemned the ongoing violence and called for the immediate cessation of such acts.
- Historical Perspective: The statement noted that the armed forces of Bangladesh have never faced the civilian population with weapons and urged that they should not be used as a tool in this manner. It stressed the need for the military to remain prepared to handle emergencies rather than being involved in domestic conflicts.
- Call for Withdrawal: The retired officials strongly opposed the militarization of the current political crisis and urged the government to withdraw the armed forces from the streets and return them to their barracks. They cited the example of Myanmar, where military intervention has led to significant destruction and international condemnation.
- Need for Dialogue: The statement called for resolving the current crisis through dialogue and negotiation rather than through further violence. It urged the government to address the grievances of the students and protesters in a peaceful manner.
- Transparency and Accountability: There was a call for transparent and credible investigations into all incidents of violence, including killings, injuries, and property damage. The officials demanded that these investigations be conducted under the auspices of the United Nations to ensure impartiality.
- Respect for Military Ethics: The statement emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, humanitarianism, and ethical conduct within the military. The retired officials urged serving members to uphold these standards and protect the nation’s sovereignty and people’s rights.
The statement concluded with a call for unity and collective efforts to restore peace and stability in Bangladesh. It expressed a commitment to supporting the country’s sovereignty and the well-being of its citizens, reaffirming a pledge to uphold the highest international human rights standards.
