Bangladesh Military Pledges Support for Interim Government Amid Reforms

Bangladesh's army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman has pledged unwavering support to the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, vowing to assist in implementing essential reforms and transitioning to democracy within 18 months. The military stepped aside in the wake of student protests against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned and fled to India.

Bangladesh's army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, has vowed unwavering support for the country's interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. This comes after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid mass protests, with Zaman pledging to assist in key reforms and the transition to democracy within 18 months.

In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Zaman, dressed in military fatigues, emphasized the military's commitment to staying out of politics and supporting Yunus's mission. He highlighted the need for patience in achieving democratic reforms in the nation of 170 million people, with elections planned within the stipulated timeframe.

The interim government's agenda includes judicial, police, and financial institution reforms. Despite lingering instability, the army has taken over law and order duties as sections of the police force remain dysfunctional. Discussions of constitutional reform and restructuring the balance of power between the president and prime minister are also on the table.

(With inputs from agencies.)