PM Tarique Rahman Urges Merit-Based Army Promotions

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has urged the military leadership to prioritize merit character and discipline over personal or political considerations when promoting officers to ensure a modern, professional army.

The Prime Minister made the remarks on Sunday morning while inaugurating the Army Selection Board-2026 at the Army Headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment.

During his directive address Rahman paid tribute to martyr President Ziaur Rahman for his foundational role in rebuilding and modernizing the armed forces. He also honored the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War war-wounded veterans and army personnel who lost their lives on duty in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Commending the military’s ongoing dedication the Prime Minister highlighted the army's vital contributions beyond national defense. He thanked the force for its critical role in maintaining internal security managing national disasters and supporting the civil administration during crises.

Upon arriving at the headquarters the Prime Minister was received by Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman and Chief of General Staff (CGS) Lt. Gen. Mainur Rahman. The Army Chief expressed his gratitude to the Premier for officially inaugurating the board.

The Prime Minister's Defense Advisor, Brig. Gen. (Retd) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam and other senior military officials attended the event. Following the ceremony Rahman participated in a photo session with military officers and signed the headquarters' visitor's book.