The Ex-Forces Association has demanded granting the armed forces full magisterial powers and control to ensure a free and fair upcoming parliamentary election. The demand was made during a seminar titled “Role of the Armed Forces in Ensuring Free and Fair Elections: Possibilities and Measures” held yesterday at the Tofazzal Hossain Manik Mia Hall, National Press Club.
Speakers emphasised that a neutral and active role of the armed forces is essential for a free, acceptable, and secure 13th parliamentary election. They stated that coordinated security with magisterial authority could prevent vote-rigging and violence. They also stressed that proper government preparations would increase public trust, ensure a fair election, and maintain stability.
The seminar was chaired by Association President Lieutenant Colonel (Retd.) Saifullah Khan. Guests included Brigadier General (Retd.) Rokon Uddin, Rashid Khan, Secretary-General of Gonodhikar Parishad, Fatema Tasnim of Amjonota Party, Bappi Sarkar, President of Shobuj Andolon, and other association leaders. Vice President Mushfiqur Rahman moderated the seminar.
Rokon Uddin highlighted that party-affiliated administrations have historically played a major role in vote-rigging and election-related violence. Therefore, he said, it is crucial to deploy the armed forces with full magisterial powers. He warned that the widespread illegal arms in the country could increase pre-election violence if not controlled. He also noted that army responsibilities must be limited and clearly defined to maintain professionalism and neutrality.
In a written statement, Lieutenant (Retd.) Saifullah Khan added that the main challenge is creating an environment free of violence, administrative bias, and political interference. They expect that keeping the armed forces neutral would ensure election transparency and legitimacy.
GLIVE/TSN