PM calls for merit-based promotions to build modern, professional army

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today stressed the need for merit-based promotions in the Bangladesh Army, saying personal preferences and political considerations should have no role in building 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," he said.

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The prime minister made the remarks while inaugurating the Army Headquarters Selection Board-2026 at Dhaka Cantonment this morning, according to Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony.

After inaugurating the selection board, the prime minister delivered a keynote address as the chief guest, he said.

In his speech, Tarique Rahman paid tribute to former president Ziaur Rahman, recalling his contribution to reorganising and modernising the Bangladesh Army.

He also remembered the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, the war-wounded freedom fighters and members of the armed forces for their contributions. He paid tribute to army personnel who were killed while performing duties in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

Highlighting the army's role, the prime minister said the force has contributed not only to safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty but also to maintaining law and order, responding to disasters and assisting the civil administration.

He thanked the chief of army staff and all members of the Bangladesh Army for their contributions.

Earlier, the chief of army staff and the chief of general staff (CGS) welcomed the prime minister on his arrival at the Army Headquarters. The army chief thanked him for attending the ceremony and inaugurating the selection board.

Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam, along with senior military officials, attended the programme.

After the ceremony, the prime minister joined a photo session with army officers and signed the Army Visitors’ Book.