Yunus: promote officers based on skills, not political bias, in Bangladesh Army

The chief advisor emphasises the need for integrity and leadership in the army

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has called for prioritising the promotion of army officers who have proven their skills and not consider political ideologies.

“Only honest, principled officials with leadership qualities deserve higher promotions,” said Yunus during the formal inauguration of the ‘Army Headquarters Selection Board-2024’ on Sunday, according to a press release issued by the Inter-Service Public Relations, or ISPR.

The first phase of this promotion board will consider eligible officers holding the rank of Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel for advancement, the statement said.

In his speech at the promotion board, the interim prime minister welcomed everyone to the ‘new Bangladesh’, paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the July-August uprising.

He also paid homage to the martyrs and members of the armed forces who participated in the Liberation War.

Yunus urged board members to focus on the professional skills, leadership qualities, discipline, integrity, loyalty, and overall suitability of officials for promotion.

He said officers who have successfully demonstrated capable leadership in military operations should be considered for promotions.

The chief advisor said the army has stood by the people during the country's critical moments and expedited the process of forming an interim government, helping to protect the country from an ‘unstable situation’.

"As a result, the Bangladesh Army has once again been recognized as a symbol of trust by the people of the country," he added.