—Audite Karim—

The armed forces of Bangladesh have earned praise and prestige across the globe. In countries torn by civil war, unrest, and violence, it is our armed forces that have carried the message of peace through United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Bangladesh’s peacekeepers are highly regarded and often lead such missions, not without reason. Anyone can see how well-liked and respected they are by speaking to residents in war-torn areas like East Timor, South Sudan, the Congo, and other African countries. While we, sitting in Bangladesh, often heard such praise from afar, we rarely experienced firsthand their dedication, intelligence and discipline until now.

Over the past nine months, the people of Bangladesh have rediscovered their armed forces in a new light. During this time, the military has transformed into a symbol of public trust, continually earning the love and gratitude of the nation. They have shown us how to stand by the people, not above them, by putting aside personal ambition and working tirelessly for the nation’s progress.

Had the armed forces not been present, civil war would have been inevitable over these last nine months. Amid chaos and clashes, our beloved motherland could have been plunged into a deep crisis. Yet, it is the strength and steady leadership of the military, especially Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman, that has kept Bangladesh on the right path, guiding it forward along its democratic journey.

If we reflect back to last August, we will see how the fascist regime deployed the army to suppress students and the public and to hold on to power. But the military made a historic choice. They did not become instruments of tyranny. This was only possible because of the determined and ethical leadership of the army chief. Thanks to him, the military never turned against the people. Instead, they worked vigilantly to prevent bloodshed and harm to civilians.

How Military Earned the Nation’s TrustIt is precisely because of the armed forces’ stance that the oppressive regime, which gripped the country for over 15 years, finally fell. The real architects behind the rebuilding of a new Bangladesh are our armed forces and their chief. In a recent interview with Al Jazeera, the army chief stated, “The members of armed forces are children of this soil. They do not wish to oppose the people. They want peace and stability for the country.”

During the absence of police and amidst administrative disorder, the armed forces stepped up courageously to maintain law and order and clear the path for the interim government. Despite ongoing political and professional demonstrations, the military never provoked or used force. With patience and resolve, they remained by the people’s side, ensuring safety. This is a rare example, almost unheard of, on the global stage.

Historically, the public feared the armed forces, particularly because of past military regimes in 1975, 1982 and during the 1/11 period. The presence of soldiers used to signal fear—boots and bayonets enforced their rule. Tales of humiliation and suppression were common. But this time, the behaviour of the military has been entirely different. They have shown compassion, acted responsibly and served the people with dignity.

Over the past nine months, while everyone else enjoyed leisure and entertainment, the military remained on duty 24/7, without complaint or rest. They gave up their own comforts to protect the nation. In the blazing sun, storms and rain, they stood guard, far from family, shielding the nation as their extended home. In return, they have earned the nation’s love and respect.

This experience proves that hearts can be won not through power but through patience and compassion. It is possible to earn public trust without violence. This chapter in the military’s history will be remembered forever.

As the army chief rightly said, “We must stay united and steer clear of division and hostility.” He himself led the way by speaking openly with people of all faiths, reassuring them and building a Bangladesh of harmony and understanding.

The military’s extraordinary role was not driven by a thirst for power but by genuine patriotism. They have shown that a country can be saved from the outside of power, not just by occupying it. This lesson is not only for Bangladesh but for the entire world.

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The writer is a playwright and columnist. Email: [email protected]