Tensions rise between Bangladesh Army and Yunus regime over arrest warrants

Tensions are rising between the Bangladesh Army and the Muhammad Yunus regime following arrest warrants issued by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against 24 army officers. These officers are accused of involvement in enforced disappearances, torture, and secret detentions, causing significant frustration within the army. The arrest warrants have placed immense pressure on Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, leading him to cancel trips to India and Saudi Arabia.

The root of the conflict is the Jamaat-e-Islami, which is pressuring Yunus to use the ICT to target those close to the former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. Originally set up to try war crimes from the 1971 Liberation War, the ICT’s role has expanded to prosecuting crimes under Hasina’s regime. The Jamaat, which is behind much of the current turmoil, seeks to replace the army with a radical Islamic force, the IRA, pushing Bangladesh toward a potential revolt.

The army has shown significant restraint, opting to follow the Constitution even during periods of chaos after Hasina’s ouster. However, the army faces growing radicalization within its ranks, influenced by the ISI and Jamaat. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has warned Yunus not to alienate the army, but the Jamaat continues its aggressive actions against army officers and Awami League members. Experts fear that unless the situation is addressed, both an army revolt and widespread civil unrest are imminent.