General Waker-uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff of Bangladesh, has emerged as a key figure in the country’s current political climate. Following a month of deadly protests and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the nation stands at a crossroads. In response to escalating tensions, General Zaman is set to deliver a critical televised address, originally scheduled for 2:00 pm and now rescheduled to 4:00 pm Bangladesh time. The army has urged the public to remain patient and adhere to the guidelines issued to maintain law and order.
This address is highly anticipated, particularly following the imposition of a curfew to restore peace. It reflects the army’s commitment to upholding the Constitution amidst a volatile political landscape.
Born on 16 September 1966 in Sherpur District, General Waker-uz-Zaman is a four-star general known for his strategic acumen and unwavering dedication to national security. As the highest-ranking officer of the Bangladesh Army, he plays a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s stability and navigating complex internal challenges.
His appointment as Chief of Army Staff on 23 June 2024 marked the culmination of an illustrious career characterized by operational excellence and strategic leadership. General Zaman was commissioned into the Bangladesh Army on 20 December 1985, graduating from the 13th BMA Long Course at the Bangladesh Military Academy. Over the years, he has held numerous significant positions, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the military landscape of Bangladesh.
Prior to his current role, General Zaman served as the Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Bangladesh Army from 29 December 2023, where he oversaw operational and strategic planning to ensure the Army’s readiness. In November 2020, he was promoted to Lieutenant General and became the 15th Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division. In this role, he was instrumental in coordinating military strategies and operations, highlighting his expertise in military administration and strategic leadership.
General Zaman’s contributions extend beyond national duties. He has participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions, including the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the United Nations Angola Verification Mission I (UNAVEM I). His dedication to global peace and stability underscores the Bangladesh Army’s broader commitment to international cooperation.
He has also made significant contributions to military education and training, serving as an instructor at renowned institutions such as the Non-Commissioned Officer’s Academy (NCOA), the School of Infantry and Tactics (SI&T), and the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT). These roles demonstrate his commitment to nurturing future military leaders and emphasize the importance of education within the military.
General Zaman’s administrative prowess was evident in his roles as Deputy Assistant Military Secretary, Assistant Military Secretary, and Deputy Military Secretary at the Army Headquarters. His leadership was further demonstrated in his command of the 46th Independent Infantry Brigade in Dhaka and his role as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 9th Infantry Division and Area Commander of the Savar Area, where he effectively led large-scale military operations.
His early life and education laid the groundwork for his future accomplishments, with academic credentials from the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Bangladesh and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the United Kingdom. He also holds a master’s degree in defence studies from Bangladesh and a Master of Arts in Defence Studies from King’s College, University of London.
As Bangladesh faces its current challenges, General Zaman’s upcoming address will likely set the tone for the army’s approach to resolving the nation’s pressing issues and reinforce his role as an important leader in the military and political landscape of Bangladesh.
