Crisis managers or power brokers? Bangladesh army's dilemma as arbiter of politics

The Bangladesh Army was directly involved in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, on August 15, 1975.

- Maj Gen R.P.S. Bhadauria (Retd) New Delhi

Since its independence, Bangladesh's army has played a controversial and powerful role in the country's politics, often stepping beyond the traditional military duties of such a force. The violent beginning of the army's direct political interference was its involvement in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation's founding leader.

This brutal act was followed by years of silence and protection for the killers through indemnity laws. Later, the mysterious death of Ziaur Rahman, another key military figure who became president, further showed the army's deep entanglement with political power struggles.

Coupled with multiple military coups throughout Bangladesh's history, these events point to a pattern where the army acts not as a defender of the nation, but as a force shaping, and often destabilizing, its political future.

In line with that trend, on August 5, 2024, under military pressure and mass protests, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh, ending her 16-year rule and revealing escalating military dominance over civilian politics. This complicated legacy brings up serious questions about the army's true role in Bangladesh's democracy.

BANGLADESH ARMY'S ROLE IN MUJIB'S ASSASSINATION
The Bangladesh Army was directly involved in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, on August 15, 1975.

A group of mid-ranking army officers, dissatisfied with Mujib's government, executed a carefully planned coup. Early that morning, these officers divided into teams to attack key locations, including Mujib's residence—Bangabandhu Bhaban. Major A. K. M. Mohiuddin Ahmed led the operation at Mujib's home.