Fresh tensions are reportedly emerging within Bangladesh’s army over growing military engagement with Pakistan and controversial promotions granted to former officers. According to a report by North East News, one major flashpoint was the graduation ceremony held at Pakistan’s Military Academy in Kakul on October 17. During the passing-out parade of the 154th Long Course, Bangladeshi cadet Riyad Mahmud Khan received the Chief of Overseas Gold Medal. While the award represents an individual achievement, it has reportedly raised concerns among some professional officers in Bangladesh’s military.
Historical Memories Fuel Discontent
Bangladesh gained independence in 1971 after a bloody liberation war against Pakistan. Against this historical background, some serving officers reportedly view sending Bangladeshi cadets to Pakistan’s military academy as a sensitive issue. Critics within the army are said to believe that such training arrangements conflict with the military’s historical legacy. However, the reported disagreement reflects differences within the institution and does not necessarily represent the views of every serving officer.
Promotions for 150 Former Officers Under Scrutiny
Another source of reported tension is a government decision to grant backdated promotions and financial benefits to 150 former military officers. According to the report, the initiative was advanced by retired Brigadier A.K.M. Shamsul Islam, the prime minister’s defence adviser. The officers had reportedly been dismissed or forced into retirement in the past. The decision has become controversial because it involves changes to the status and benefits of former members of the armed forces.
Objections From Military Chiefs Reported
The report claims that the chiefs of the army, navy and air force raised objections to the promotion proposal. Despite their reported reservations, the Armed Forces Division proceeded with its implementation. Some serving officers reportedly believe that several beneficiaries are sympathetic to Pakistan or politically close to Jamaat-e-Islami and the current political establishment. These claims have added to concerns about political influence over military affairs and the treatment of former officers.
Reported Clash Between Senior Officials
Tensions reportedly became visible during an event at Dhaka Cantonment, where Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman allegedly had a heated exchange with Major General Mahbubus Samad Chowdhury, the director general of the Special Security Force. According to the report, disagreements over changes to the command structure and promotions for former officers contributed to the confrontation. The reported incident has raised questions about coordination and decision-making within Bangladesh’s security establishment.
Army Chief’s India Visits Face Repeated Delays
The report also claims that General Waqar-uz-Zaman has repeatedly faced difficulties in travelling to India for important regional defence meetings. Delays in issuing the necessary government orders were allegedly linked to political pressure during Muhammad Yunus’s interim administration. The army chief reportedly cancelled another planned visit in late September amid reluctance from the BNP-led government. These developments point to reported tensions over Bangladesh’s military diplomacy and its efforts to balance relations with India and Pakistan.
