Published: 11:58 PM, 26 July 2026
Merit basis, not political views, should be evaluated for army promotions: PM
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday stressed the need for merit-based promotions in Bangladesh Army, rising above personal preferences or political considerations to build a modern and professional force.
"In order to build a modern and professional army, the highest importance should be given to merit, professional competence, integrity, moral character, leadership qualities and discipline in promotions, rising above personal liking and disliking or political considerations," Tarique Rahman said.
The Prime Minister emphasized the above point at the inaugural ceremony of the Army Headquarters Selection Board-2026 at Dhaka Cantonment, said Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony.
After inaugurating the selection board, he said, the Prime Minister delivered a directional speech at the event as the chief guest.
In his address, Tarique Rahman recalled with deep respect the contribution of martyred President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of the country's independence, for reorganizing and modernizing Bangladesh Army.
He also gratefully remembered the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the glorious Liberation War in 1971, the war-wounded freedom fighters and the members of the country's armed forces for their contributions. The Prime Minister also paid profound honour to the army personnel who embraced martyrdom while performing duties in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).
Lauding the role of Bangladesh Army in safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty, the Prime Minister said alongside national security, the army has been making significant contributions to maintaining internal law and order, disaster response and providing assistance to the civil administration.
Tarique Rahman thanked Chief of Army Staff General Waker Uz Zaman and all members of the force for their contributions to this end.
The Army Chief expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for attending the ceremony and inaugurating the Selection Board.
