AL never uses armed forces to capture power: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said her party never used the armed forces as a tool for capturing power, rather wanted to build it as a strong, disciplined and dignified force.

"Awami League believes in democracy, so the party never used the armed forces as a tool for capturing power or did anything to instigate a coup and killing in the force," she said adding that the Bangladesh Armed Force originated from the War of Liberation is a pride of the nation.

The prime minister said this at a reception organised at Senakunja, Dhaka Cantonment this afternoon marking Bangladesh Armed Forces Day-2016.

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh Awami League whenever it came to power worked for the development of the armed forces and welfare of its members. The party wanted to build a strong armed force to be reputed at home and abroad.

Congratulating the members of the armed forces on the occasion, she urged them to be imbued with the ideals and spirit of the Armed Forces Day to work together for the nation.

Highlighting special significance of the day in the history of the War of Liberation of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina said the valiant fighters of the army, navy and air force launched joint attacks on the occupational force on this day in 1971.

As a result, the devastating occupation force was compelled to surrender amid united assault of the Freedom Fighters and Allied Force, she said.

Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, cabinet members, leader of the opposition Begum Rowshan Ershad, parliament members, chiefs of three the services, members of the Bangladesh Armed Forces and their spouses, leaders of different political parties, professionals and diplomats attended the reception.

After addressing the audience, the prime minister moved round the venue of the reception and exchanged pleasantries with the army officials and their family members, diplomats and other guests.

Lauding the role of Bangladesh Armed Forces at home and abroad in nation building activities and peace keeping, the prime minister said their professionalism and competence transcended across the globe.

They have brightened the country's image at the international level through their relentless services, she said.