Democracy Guided by Liberation War Ideals

The Chief of the Bangladesh Army, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, has reaffirmed that Bangladesh’s democratic journey will continue to be guided by the ideals and sacrifices of the nation’s Liberation War heroes. He emphasised that the armed forces remain committed to upholding the spirit of the freedom fighters while supporting the country’s stability, sovereignty and democratic progress.

The Army Chief made these remarks on Thursday during a special iftar and prayer gathering organised by the Bangladesh Army at Dhaka Cantonment in honour of wounded freedom fighters. The event brought together senior military officials and a large number of war-wounded veterans who had fought in the historic Liberation War of 1971.

Addressing the gathering, General Waker-Uz-Zaman noted that the country had passed through a particularly significant and challenging period over the past eighteen months. According to him, the Bangladesh Army carried out its duties during this time with professionalism, dedication and a deep sense of responsibility.

“Over the past eighteen months, the nation has experienced a critical phase,” he said. “During this period, the Bangladesh Army has acted with professionalism and strong commitment. We have always stood beside the people and worked to maintain national stability and security.”

The Army Chief further stated that Bangladesh has now entered a renewed democratic trajectory and expressed optimism that the country’s democratic institutions would continue to strengthen in the coming years. He stressed that the armed forces would always remain loyal to the constitution and supportive of the people of Bangladesh.

The gathering also provided an emotional moment for many of the war-wounded veterans present. Several freedom fighters recalled their experiences from the battlefields of 1971, reflecting on the hardships, sacrifices and determination that led to Bangladesh’s independence. Their recollections served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the country’s liberation and the enduring value of freedom and democracy.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman paid deep tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War as well as those who lost their lives in subsequent democratic movements, including the July mass uprising. He prayed for the eternal peace of their souls and acknowledged their contribution to shaping the nation’s democratic aspirations.

The wounded freedom fighters attending the event expressed gratitude to the Bangladesh Army for organising the iftar gathering in their honour. They commended the armed forces for their timely role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and supporting the nation during times of crisis. Many also noted that such initiatives strengthen the bond between the military and the veterans who fought for the country’s independence.

Prior to the iftar, a special prayer was offered seeking peace, prosperity and continued stability for the nation. Participants also prayed for the souls of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Bangladesh.

The Liberation War remains a defining chapter in Bangladesh’s history. Fought in 1971 against the Pakistani military regime, the conflict resulted in the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation after nine months of war.

Below are several key historical facts related to the Liberation War:

The iftar gathering at Dhaka Cantonment thus served not only as a gesture of respect for the war-wounded veterans but also as a reaffirmation of Bangladesh’s commitment to the ideals of the Liberation War—democracy, justice and national unity. Through such commemorative events, the contributions of the freedom fighters continue to inspire future generations and reinforce the values upon which the nation was founded.