Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Wednesday visited Patuakhali and Khulna to review the law and order situation ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum 2026, and to inspect army personnel deployed in support of the civil administration.
During the visit, the army chief observed the activities of troops deployed under the “in aid to the civil power” arrangement, issued operational guidance and exchanged views with officials of the civil administration, according to officials.
As part of the tour, General Waker-Uz-Zaman held a coordination meeting at the Patuakhali Deputy Commissioner’s office with senior military officials, representatives of the divisional and district administration, and officers from various law enforcement agencies. A similar meeting was later held at the Khulna Divisional Commissioner’s office.
Discussions at the meetings focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination and ensuring effective security management so that the parliamentary election and referendum can be conducted in a peaceful, neutral and credible manner.
The army chief stressed the need for professionalism, discipline and strict political neutrality while performing election-related duties.
He also underscored the importance of patience and citizen-friendly behaviour by security personnel to maintain public confidence during the electoral process.
Senior military officials, including the General Officer Commanding of the Army Training and Doctrine Command, the GOC of the 55 Infantry Division and Area Commander of Jashore Area, and the GOC of the 7 Infantry Division and Area Commander of Barishal Area, were present during the visit.
Divisional commissioners, senior officials of the civil administration and law enforcement agencies, as well as representatives from various media organisations, also attended the meetings.
Officials said the visit was part of ongoing efforts to assess preparedness and coordination among stakeholders involved in maintaining law and order during the election period, particularly in the southern districts.
The army will continue to provide support to the civil administration as required to ensure that the election and referendum are held in a peaceful and orderly environment, officials added.
