In a move reflecting both strategic recalibration and preparation for the upcoming national elections, the Bangladesh Army has begun withdrawing 50 percent of its personnel currently deployed across the country. The decision, issued through a government directive earlier this week, aims to provide rest and retraining opportunities for troops before their redeployment during the election period — when around 90,000 to 100,000 soldiers will be stationed nationwide to ensure security and stability.
Brigadier General Dewan Mohammad Monzur Hossain, Director of Military Operations Directorate (MOD), confirmed the development during a press briefing at Mess-A of Dhaka Cantonment today. “We have received the letter regarding the withdrawal and accordingly, we will take necessary measures keeping the law and order situation in consideration,” he said.
Operational Context
For the past 15 months, the Bangladesh Army has been supporting civil administration efforts to maintain law and order in the aftermath of the July Uprising. During this period, the force has conducted extensive security operations across the country, recovering 81 percent of missing firearms and 73 percent of missing ammunition. Over 19,000 criminals have been arrested — including notorious gang leaders, robbers, and extortionists — as part of the ongoing drive to stabilise the internal security environment.
Brig Gen Monzur highlighted the army’s active role in recent counter-crime and counter-terrorism operations. “Based on intelligence, we conducted a raid at the Airport Railway Station and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition. In the past two weeks alone, our bomb disposal teams neutralised over a hundred homemade bombs,” he stated.
The Bangladesh Army has also extended humanitarian assistance and medical aid in the aftermath of unrest and disaster. “We have treated 5,338 people at various CMHs, and 27 are still undergoing treatment at Dhaka CMH,” the MOD Director added.
Strategic Withdrawal and Election Training
The temporary drawdown of half of the army’s deployment, effective from Wednesday, is intended to give troops time for rest and election-specific training. According to the government’s directive, this is a preparatory phase before a full-scale redeployment closer to the national polls, expected in February 2026.
“After rest and retraining, troops will be redeployed in phases, replacing the remaining personnel,” Brig Gen Monzur explained. Camps will be established at district, upazila, and constituency levels during the election period, ensuring layered and localised command control.
He reiterated the army’s readiness to assist the Election Commission (EC) in maintaining a peaceful and credible voting environment. “The army will cooperate as required to ensure a free and fair election and will assist the Election Commission in whatever way necessary,” he said.
Army’s Commitment to Stability and Sovereignty
Quoting the Bangladesh Army’s enduring motto — “In war, in peace, we are everywhere for our country” — Brig Gen Monzur reaffirmed the institution’s loyalty to the nation. “Every member of the Bangladesh Army is committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of Bangladesh,” he said.
Lt Gen Md Mainur Rahman, General Officer Commanding of the Army Training and Doctrine Command (ARTDOC), also addressed the media, dismissing rumours circulating in recent weeks. “Some vested interests are spreading false and malicious propaganda, but the army is now more united than ever and will carry out the responsibilities entrusted to it,” he asserted.
He further noted that the army has been continuously operational over the last 15 months — not only in law enforcement support but also in handling humanitarian crises such as floods in Cumilla and Noakhali, as well as maintaining critical infrastructure during nationwide blockades.
Lt Gen Mainur issued a firm warning regarding internal security during the election run-up: “Operations will continue to ensure that no weapon shipments reach Dhaka. The safety of citizens and the integrity of the electoral process remain our highest priorities.”
Preparations for February 2026 Elections
Following directives from Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, issued at a high-level security meeting on 1 November, all three services — Army, Navy, and Air Force — are to ensure foolproof security and coordination leading up to the elections. In total, over 100,000 personnel from the three branches will be mobilised.
- Army: Approximately 90,000–100,000 troops
- Navy: Around 2,500 personnel
- Air Force: Approximately 1,500 personnel
The Chief Adviser’s instruction to the service chiefs emphasised maintaining a “clearly defined command structure and close coordination among all forces” during the pre-election and polling phases. The Chief of Army Staff, General Waker, has been directed to align the army’s deployment plan accordingly, ensuring both deterrence and public confidence.
Towards a Peaceful National Election
The Bangladesh Army leadership underscored that a free, fair, and festive election is vital to restoring national stability and allowing troops to gradually return to their cantonments. Brig Gen Monzur concluded the briefing by affirming that under the direction of the Chief of Army Staff, the Bangladesh Army remains ready to provide all necessary assistance to the Election Commission and the caretaker administration.
“Our goal is to help create the conditions where the democratic process can proceed without fear, ensuring the people’s trust in state institutions,” he said.
As the country moves toward the February 2026 polls, the army’s phased withdrawal and planned redeployment mark a significant transition — from maintaining internal order to enabling a secure and credible democratic process, underscoring once again its dual commitment to national stability and constitutional responsibility.
