Armed Forces are National Assets, Not Individual Property: PM Tarique Rahman

Addressing a "Darbar" (special assembly) at the Dhaka Cantonment at 11:15 AM on Sunday, April 12, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that a strong and united military is the ultimate safeguard against any foreign aggression. He asserted that if the Armed Forces remain resilient and cohesive, no power in the world would ever be able to defeat Bangladesh.

During his speech, the Prime Minister specifically highlighted the historic and responsible role played by the Armed Forces during the July Mass Uprising. He noted that their principled stance during those turbulent times provided immense hope to the general public and established a profound sense of trust between the military and the civilian population. Prime Minister Rahman credited the military's restraint and nationalistic commitment as a key factor in stabilizing the country during the transition, reinforcing their image as a force dedicated to the protection of the people's aspirations.

Addressing members of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Prime Minister called for an uncompromising commitment to professionalism and discipline. He underscored that the discipline of the Armed Forces is fundamental to the formation of a modern and robust democratic state. According to the Prime Minister, every member of the force must be motivated by deep-seated patriotism to protect national security and uphold the sovereignty of the nation. He reiterated his government's continuous efforts toward the modernization and capacity building of the forces to meet 21st-century challenges.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a time of widespread national discussion regarding the positive contributions of the military in the country’s ongoing reform process. High-ranking military officials and personnel of various ranks attended the special assembly, where the leadership’s vision for a professionalized and apolitical military was clearly outlined. The government has pledged to provide all necessary resources to ensure that the Bangladesh Armed Forces remain a formidable and technologically advanced shield for the nation’s democratic values and territorial integrity.