B'desh Army Will Not Meddle In Politics: Gen

Having learnt its lessons from the past, the Bangladesh army has resolved to stay out of politics, said Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman.

"Meddling in politics is harmful for the army. Such things have happened in the past and we have learned from them." Waker-Uz-Zaman said in an interview with the daily, Prothom Alo. The army must not interfere in politics, he said.

The four-star general was answering a question hinting that there were apprehensions among the people about the army's interest in politics and that this had happened before.

The General said the army's interference in politics has never been good for them. "So, it is my pledge that during my tenure as army chief, I will not meddle into politics. I will not let the military interfere in the political affairs."

He added, "Only politicians can replace politicians. The army can't be an alternative for politicians."